GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
    • Noises are listed in this section under the area of the vehicle they are perceived to be coming from, not necessarily where the noise ordinates. There may be duplications since a single noise may be perceived to be coming from multiple areas of the vehicle.
        Under each noise is listed the problem (symptom), possible cause, and corrective action (diagnosis and repair). If disassemble is required, a reference is given to the section of the manual describing the process.
    • When disassembly is required to gain access to the source of the noise, it is advisable to correct other possible noises in that general area before reassembly.
    • This information is a guide to some of the more common problems that have been experienced but not a substitute for the user's powers of perception. There is no substitute for a good set of ears.
    • Unwanted noises are usually caused by improperly controlled relative motion between components. There are four means to prevent noises after component replacement or repair.
       - Attach the components securely so there is no relative motion during operation.
       - Separate the components so there is no contact under normal operating conditions.
       - Insulate the components so no sound occurs with relative motion between the surfaces.
       - Provide a low friction surface to eliminate a stick slip motion.
    • To communicate a noise, words must be used. Many different words can be used to describe a noise. The noise description table list noises and their descriptions as used in this book.

Noise Description Table

Noise

Description

Bang

Wooden screen door slamming

Buzz

A flying bumblebee

Chatter

Windshield wiper on a dry windshield

Chirp

A bird; a cricket

Clunk

A heavy door closing

Creak

Rusty door hinge opening

Flutter

Flag flapping in the wind

Itch

Two surfaces rubbing together under light contact

Jingle

Metal keys on a key ring lightly touching

Pop

Removing a cork from a bottle

Rattle

Baby's rattle; stone bouncing around in a plastic container

Rolling

Marble rolling across a table

Rustle

Autumn leaves in the wind ; sound of rushing water

Slap

Quick sharp blow with an open hand

Squeak

Tennis shoes on a wooden floor