Rear Shelf Area - Creaking Noise
98-043May 26, 1998
Applies To: 1998 Accord - 4-door, V6, thru VIN 1HGCG1...WA046409
- 4-door, L4, thru VIN 1HGCG5...WA172905 and 1HGCF8..WA173464
- 2-door, V6, thru VIN 1HGCG2...WA022588
- 2-door, L4, thru VIN 1HGCG3...WA007699
Creak From the Rear Shelf Area
SYMPTOM
A creak from the rear shelf, usually when driving slowly and turning into a driveway.
PROBABLE CAUSE
Movement between the rear bulkhead supports and the bulkhead.
CORRECTIVE ACTION
Bend the lower-outer edge of both rear bulkhead supports away from the bulkhead to provide clearance.
REPAIR PROCEDURE
1. Fold down the rear seat-back.
2. Have an assistant in the front passenger's seat listen to the back of the vehicle as you slowly drive over a speed bump or into a driveway while turning. (It's difficult to reproduce the creak unless you are driving slowly and turning at the same time.)
^ If a creak is heard from either side of the rear bulkhead, go to step 3.
^ If creaking noises from other areas are heard, do not use this service bulletin. Instead, use Service Bulletin 98-013, Creaking Noise from the Headliner; Windshield, and/or Rear Window (filed under Body in your Service Bulletin binder).
3. Carefully bend the lower-outer edge of both rear bulkhead supports away from the bulkhead with a flat-tip screwdriver.
4. Test-drive the vehicle. If you still hear the creak, bend the edge of the support a little more and then repeat the test-drive.
WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION
In warranty:
The normal warranty applies.
Failed part: P/N 84500-S84-A20ZA
H/C 5453998
Defect code: 042
Contention code: B07
Skill level: Repair Technician
Out of warranty:
Any repair performed after warranty expiration may be eligible for goodwill consideration by the District Service Manager or your Zone Office. You must request consideration, and get a decision before starting work.