Rattling noise in the back/cargo area

[Aleko]

I have this rattling noise coming from the back of my X5. It sounds like it's coming from the trunk/cargo area, but it could also be anything inside the panels, tail gate, or even outside the car. It started about 3-5K miles ago (currently have 32K on the clock). What's weird about it is when I'm on a really bad road (like a gravel road, or crossing railroad tracks), it doesn’t always do it; however, it would rattle on better roads with just minor "imperfections" or small potholes, if that makes sense. I had my dealer check it out when I was in for my last service; they said they lubed rear seat latches and it should now be fine. It sounded like it was fine for a day or to, but then it started doing it again (maybe I just didn't drive on the right roads that first day or two). I some point I had everything loose removed from the back – anything that could be causing it – but it'd still rattle. Now, I think I remember reading about someone else's X5 doing that, but that was 2 or 3 years ago over on roadfly, and I obviously couldn't find that post now. Does anyone have any idea what could be causing it? I'm willing to try just about anything at this point because it drives me crazy!

[spydrz]

Did you try adjusting the rubber bumpers that the hatch rests on? That cured my rattles...

[Aleko]

No, I have not tried that... That would make sense though, wouldn't it? I'll give it a shot and see what happens. Thanks.

[UncleTito]

The screws that hold down the rubber stoppers are Torx-25 I believe. Turn both screws loose and hand turn the stoppers counterclockwise 1/2 turn or so. Then re-tighten the screws. You might want to mark the stoppers in case you need to return them to their original position (ie: if this fix doesn't cure the rattles).

[Intel55]

Do you have the retractable cargo floor?

[Aleko]

Originally Posted by Intel55

Do you have the retractable cargo floor?

No, just a regular floor.

[Curious Joel]

Probably a long shot, but do you have a license plate frame? If those are loose they can make a surprising amount of noise.

[Aleko]

Originally Posted by UncleTito

The screws that hold down the rubber stoppers are Torx-25 I believe. Turn both screws loose and hand turn the stoppers counterclockwise 1/2 turn or so. Then re-tighten the screws. You might want to mark the stoppers in case you need to return them to their original position (ie: if this fix doesn't cure the rattles).

I did just that, so I'll keep an eye (ear?) on it over the next couple of days and see if it makes any difference.

[Aleko]

Originally Posted by Curious Joel

Probably a long shot, but do you have a license plate frame? If those are loose they can make a surprising amount of noise.

Yes, I do have a "BMW" frame. Good suggestion, I'll check it out as well.

[Aleko]

I think adjusting those rubber stoppers did the trick - I've been rattle-free for a couple of days now. What a relief. Thanks for your help guys.