Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Rattle Noise From Front Of Dash Area (00-T-39)
Reference number: 00-T-39
RATTLE NOISE FROM FRONT OF DASH AREA
TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN
| SATURN: | 1991-2000 S-Series vehicles |
| SECTION: | Body |
SUBJECT
Rattle Noise from Front of Dash Area (Install Foam Shim).
MODELS AFFECTED
1991-2000 Saturn S-Series vehicles built and including VIN YZ189715.
CONDITION
Some customers may comment about a noise coming from the right side of the dash area when the engine is running. This noise is more noticeable when the vehicle is being lightly accelerated or when a vehicle equipped with and automatic transaxle is in Reverse or Drive with the brakes applied.
CAUSE
The rattle noise may be caused by the heater return pipe contacting the front of dash.
CORRECTION
Install a foam shim between the heater return pipe and the front of the dash using the procedure in this bulletin.
PROCEDURE
- Verify the condition by following these steps:
- Start the engine and listen for the rattle noise.
- If the rattle noise can be heard coming from the right side of the dash area proceed to step 1.2.
- If the rattle noise cannot be heard coming from the right side of the dash area, refer to other service information for assistance in diagnosing the complaint.
- Insert a long screwdriver between the front of dash and the heater return pipe and gently pry the heater return pipe away from the front of hash.
- If the noise goes away, proceed to step 2.
- If the noise does not go away, refer to other service information for assistance in diagnosing the complaint.
IMPORTANT: The foam shim is called "Roof Panel Pad" in the Saturn S-Series Parts and Illustration Catalog. However, it can used for this repair. - Start the engine and listen for the rattle noise.
- Install a foam shim (P/N 21109901) between the front of dash and the heater return pipe at location shown in illustration. (See Fig 1 .)
PARTS REQUIREMENTS
21109901 - Roof Panel Pad (Foam Shim).
CLAIM INFORMATION
To receive credit for this repair during the warranty coverage period, submit a claim through the Saturn Dealer system as follows:
VW--Install Foam Shim Between Heater Pipe and Front of Dash -- Z4106 -- 0.2 hrs.
NO RELATED
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.