Rattle in B-pillar is defined as a feature by MBUSA now.
#3
Thread Starter
Super Member
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 573
Likes: 5
From: Los Angeles
'19 MBZ E450 Wagon, '19 BMW 530e
MBUSA doesn't really care because they came to conclusion and issued the letter on 6/12/2014.
My dealership is still working on the car this week (Day 39 and counting)
Calls:
3/28 - Reported MBUSA chat for assistance since repairs in December and January didn't work
3/28 - CAC Manager first reached out
4/1 - Asked to dropped off vehicle at dealer and road test with tech
4/11 - Asked to pick up vehicle due to lack of parts - Rattle still present and newly added seat creaking
4/14 - Spoken to CAC Manager to update the case
4/16 - Dealer asked to bring car in as one part arrived
4/17 - Test drive again with dealer to show the tech ...
4/18 - Dealer swap parts out of loaner
4/19 - Picked up soiled interior car. Rattle in B-pillar still present.
4/21 - Talked to CAC Manager to request Buy Back due to rattle still exist in vehicle
4/22 - Case pushed to Client Retention Manager (CRM)
4/25 - Attempt to contact CRM but no response
5/2 - Two weeks waiting period ended.
5/5 - Spoken to CRM and advised case did not reach him until 5/2.
5/5 - Advised to deal with the dealer. Dropped off at dealership
5/12 - Picked up car from dealership.
5/15 - Updated case notes with MBUSA CRM
5/17 - Road tested vehicle over the weekend and confirmed issue/rattle unresolved.
5/19 - Informed servicing dealer of issue.
5/21 - Requested update call from MBUSA CRM
5/23 - Informed by CRM that field agents are backed up, and CRM will contact dealer regarding the persistent rattle has returned and suggest another repair attempt.
5/28 - Dealership advised that MBUSA didn't contact them. Called CRM and left message
5/29 - Talked with CAC rep Teresa and requested call back from CRM - No Calls Returned
5/30 - Request another call back with CAC rep. No callback
5/30 - Filed Complaints with NHTSA
6/3 - Request another call back from CRM. No callback
6/5 - Took vehicle in to dealership and dealership refused the vehicle until MBUSA provides directive.
6/6 - Per CRM case will have results next week
6/11 - Dealer informed to bring car back on 17th for regional tech review
6/13 - Emailed CRM. for update
6/16 - Dropped off vehicle at dealership
6/19 - Called CRM for update and advised buyback is declined nor any compensation for downtime will be provided because the vehicle is considered as not defective in MBUSA standard.
My dealership is still working on the car this week (Day 39 and counting)
Calls:
3/28 - Reported MBUSA chat for assistance since repairs in December and January didn't work
3/28 - CAC Manager first reached out
4/1 - Asked to dropped off vehicle at dealer and road test with tech
4/11 - Asked to pick up vehicle due to lack of parts - Rattle still present and newly added seat creaking
4/14 - Spoken to CAC Manager to update the case
4/16 - Dealer asked to bring car in as one part arrived
4/17 - Test drive again with dealer to show the tech ...
4/18 - Dealer swap parts out of loaner
4/19 - Picked up soiled interior car. Rattle in B-pillar still present.
4/21 - Talked to CAC Manager to request Buy Back due to rattle still exist in vehicle
4/22 - Case pushed to Client Retention Manager (CRM)
4/25 - Attempt to contact CRM but no response
5/2 - Two weeks waiting period ended.
5/5 - Spoken to CRM and advised case did not reach him until 5/2.
5/5 - Advised to deal with the dealer. Dropped off at dealership
5/12 - Picked up car from dealership.
5/15 - Updated case notes with MBUSA CRM
5/17 - Road tested vehicle over the weekend and confirmed issue/rattle unresolved.
5/19 - Informed servicing dealer of issue.
5/21 - Requested update call from MBUSA CRM
5/23 - Informed by CRM that field agents are backed up, and CRM will contact dealer regarding the persistent rattle has returned and suggest another repair attempt.
5/28 - Dealership advised that MBUSA didn't contact them. Called CRM and left message
5/29 - Talked with CAC rep Teresa and requested call back from CRM - No Calls Returned
5/30 - Request another call back with CAC rep. No callback
5/30 - Filed Complaints with NHTSA
6/3 - Request another call back from CRM. No callback
6/5 - Took vehicle in to dealership and dealership refused the vehicle until MBUSA provides directive.
6/6 - Per CRM case will have results next week
6/11 - Dealer informed to bring car back on 17th for regional tech review
6/13 - Emailed CRM. for update
6/16 - Dropped off vehicle at dealership
6/19 - Called CRM for update and advised buyback is declined nor any compensation for downtime will be provided because the vehicle is considered as not defective in MBUSA standard.
Last edited by instantfob; 06-20-2014 at 12:52 PM.
#4
Considering it took close to 100,000 miles to get rid of every last squeak & rattle in my 2004 Infiniti M45, you're not doing too bad.
That said, I'm now at 204k on the clock and still no interior rattles/squeaks. There's also probably 10 lbs or more of felt tape behind all of the panels in my car now too.
That said, I'm now at 204k on the clock and still no interior rattles/squeaks. There's also probably 10 lbs or more of felt tape behind all of the panels in my car now too.
#5
Thread Starter
Super Member
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 573
Likes: 5
From: Los Angeles
'19 MBZ E450 Wagon, '19 BMW 530e
Considering it took close to 100,000 miles to get rid of every last squeak & rattle in my 2004 Infiniti M45, you're not doing too bad.
That said, I'm now at 204k on the clock and still no interior rattles/squeaks. There's also probably 10 lbs or more of felt tape behind all of the panels in my car now too.
That said, I'm now at 204k on the clock and still no interior rattles/squeaks. There's also probably 10 lbs or more of felt tape behind all of the panels in my car now too.
2014 rattles started at 1000 mile. (car currently has 5800 miles)
#6
is there a rattle in b pillar?
it was a common problem in 1997-2000 BMWs link to the fix BMW did
http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum...54#post9600954
masybe it will help you & dealer to fix your problem,
http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum...54#post9600954
masybe it will help you & dealer to fix your problem,
#7
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 1,747
Likes: 12
From: Central Pennsylvania
2012 S350 Bluetec 4Matic, Diamond White, P2
Unfortunately, squeaks and rattles are seldom considered for lemon law purposes, as they are considered cosmetic defects. I would take it to a good independent shop and have them removed the B pillar and felt and foam everything inside. A couple hours of independent shop time is well worth the savings in aggravation and hassle.
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#8
Unfortunately, squeaks and rattles are seldom considered for lemon law purposes, as they are considered cosmetic defects. I would take it to a good independent shop and have them removed the B pillar and felt and foam everything inside. A couple hours of independent shop time is well worth the savings in aggravation and hassle.
#9
Thread Starter
Super Member
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 573
Likes: 5
From: Los Angeles
'19 MBZ E450 Wagon, '19 BMW 530e
Unfortunately, squeaks and rattles are seldom considered for lemon law purposes, as they are considered cosmetic defects. I would take it to a good independent shop and have them removed the B pillar and felt and foam everything inside. A couple hours of independent shop time is well worth the savings in aggravation and hassle.
I honestly want the car fixed because I love the color combo and options on my car. I have asked the dealer to show me how to pull apart the B-pillar and I'll felt the heck out of it but they insist that they'll void my warranty ....
Imagine someone wearing a Rolex watch loosely and shake it next to your left ear as you drive .... that drives me nuts!
#11
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 405
Likes: 45
S213 E450 4Matic, W111 220SE - prior cars: 3x W212, W210 E55 AMG, W202 C43 AMG, W126 300SE
I don't know about a rattle, but on harsh roads, I am getting a buzz in the driver's B-pillar - no doubt exacerbated by the runflats and overly stiff "sport" suspension". The rear deck noise, while muted from earlier, is definitely still there. MB really needs to work on plastic coatings and the border between different pieces.
#12
Thread Starter
Super Member
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 573
Likes: 5
From: Los Angeles
'19 MBZ E450 Wagon, '19 BMW 530e
Picked up the vehicle from dealer today.
While the MBUSA rep is playing denial, my local dealer team narrowed down the rattle culprit with the door striker which transmitted the sound through the b-pillar. They made some adjustment and tweaks to it...
I need to buy these guys beer if they have nailed the problem
While the MBUSA rep is playing denial, my local dealer team narrowed down the rattle culprit with the door striker which transmitted the sound through the b-pillar. They made some adjustment and tweaks to it...
I need to buy these guys beer if they have nailed the problem
#13
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 1,747
Likes: 12
From: Central Pennsylvania
2012 S350 Bluetec 4Matic, Diamond White, P2
On my E, I had the noise you describe and believe it or not, I traced it down the hinges on the "REAR" door just behind the drivers door. Try spraying a little WD-40 on the hinges of the rear door and see if that doesn't cure what ails you.
#14
Thread Starter
Super Member
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 573
Likes: 5
From: Los Angeles
'19 MBZ E450 Wagon, '19 BMW 530e
I will go home tonight and clean/lube the door hinges. I am starting to love my car again but still disappointed with MBUSA.
#15
Hi,
If the dealer and MBUSA can't/won't resolve then advise MBUSA that you are taking to an independent shop and will have them make the necessary repairs and then you will ask MBUSA to reimburse. If they refuse to reimburse (which they will) then advise that you will be taking them to Small Claims Court and let a judge decide.
I did exactly what I am recommending to you after Mercedes told me to go pound sand and the guy who signed your letter showed up in court with a lawyer and I won the case.
Guessing they spent a lot of money on me with the lawyer, etc. and now when I go in for service I get greeted by the Service Manager and the Shop Foreman for any repairs/service.
Let me know if you need any help if you go forward with Small Claims Court.
If the dealer and MBUSA can't/won't resolve then advise MBUSA that you are taking to an independent shop and will have them make the necessary repairs and then you will ask MBUSA to reimburse. If they refuse to reimburse (which they will) then advise that you will be taking them to Small Claims Court and let a judge decide.
I did exactly what I am recommending to you after Mercedes told me to go pound sand and the guy who signed your letter showed up in court with a lawyer and I won the case.
Guessing they spent a lot of money on me with the lawyer, etc. and now when I go in for service I get greeted by the Service Manager and the Shop Foreman for any repairs/service.
Let me know if you need any help if you go forward with Small Claims Court.
#16
Thread Starter
Super Member
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 573
Likes: 5
From: Los Angeles
'19 MBZ E450 Wagon, '19 BMW 530e
Hi,
If the dealer and MBUSA can't/won't resolve then advise MBUSA that you are taking to an independent shop and will have them make the necessary repairs and then you will ask MBUSA to reimburse. If they refuse to reimburse (which they will) then advise that you will be taking them to Small Claims Court and let a judge decide.
I did exactly what I am recommending to you after Mercedes told me to go pound sand and the guy who signed your letter showed up in court with a lawyer and I won the case.
Guessing they spent a lot of money on me with the lawyer, etc. and now when I go in for service I get greeted by the Service Manager and the Shop Foreman for any repairs/service.
Let me know if you need any help if you go forward with Small Claims Court.
If the dealer and MBUSA can't/won't resolve then advise MBUSA that you are taking to an independent shop and will have them make the necessary repairs and then you will ask MBUSA to reimburse. If they refuse to reimburse (which they will) then advise that you will be taking them to Small Claims Court and let a judge decide.
I did exactly what I am recommending to you after Mercedes told me to go pound sand and the guy who signed your letter showed up in court with a lawyer and I won the case.
Guessing they spent a lot of money on me with the lawyer, etc. and now when I go in for service I get greeted by the Service Manager and the Shop Foreman for any repairs/service.
Let me know if you need any help if you go forward with Small Claims Court.
The dealer techs may have fixed the issue. The car has been quiet so far since they made adjustment on the door striker. ::: fingers-crossed :::
#17
#18
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Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 1,800
Likes: 12
1953 300 Adenauer, 1971 300 SEL 6.3, 1975 600, 1978 450 6.9
I'm glad to hear that the dealership seems to have resolved the issue - but - MB was correct in denying your buyback claim for a rattle. While very annoying that MB told you to go pound sand, the California (and most other) lemon law requires:
The lemon law covers vehicle nonconformities, which are defined as any vehicle defect
or malfunction that:
1. Is covered by the manufacturer’s written new vehicle warranty and
2. Substantially impairs the use, value or safety of the vehicle to the consumer.
While #1 is easy, courts have held that noises generally do not rise to the level of "substantially impairing the use, value or safety".
FWIW, MB is actually one of the better companies when it comes to buying back cars. It is a tough pill to swallow and when Ford did that to me it really pissed me off but you have to try to look at it from their perspective.
OTOH, I love the way to slammed Rolex. I thought I was one of the few people who recognized that they are way overrated.
The lemon law covers vehicle nonconformities, which are defined as any vehicle defect
or malfunction that:
1. Is covered by the manufacturer’s written new vehicle warranty and
2. Substantially impairs the use, value or safety of the vehicle to the consumer.
While #1 is easy, courts have held that noises generally do not rise to the level of "substantially impairing the use, value or safety".
FWIW, MB is actually one of the better companies when it comes to buying back cars. It is a tough pill to swallow and when Ford did that to me it really pissed me off but you have to try to look at it from their perspective.
OTOH, I love the way to slammed Rolex. I thought I was one of the few people who recognized that they are way overrated.
Last edited by CEB; 06-27-2014 at 03:36 PM. Reason: Fixed spacing
#19
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Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 1,351
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From: Germantown, MD/Rehoboth Beach, DE
2024 GLS450
#21
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 1,800
Likes: 12
1953 300 Adenauer, 1971 300 SEL 6.3, 1975 600, 1978 450 6.9
#23
Considering it took close to 100,000 miles to get rid of every last squeak & rattle in my 2004 Infiniti M45, you're not doing too bad.
That said, I'm now at 204k on the clock and still no interior rattles/squeaks. There's also probably 10 lbs or more of felt tape behind all of the panels in my car now too.
That said, I'm now at 204k on the clock and still no interior rattles/squeaks. There's also probably 10 lbs or more of felt tape behind all of the panels in my car now too.
Same situation on my 203. I had rattles all over! I am at 120k and the car seems solid now lol. I guess they need to be broken in or something.
#24
Sometimes it is worse to run to the dealer for these issues. I have only had one small noise in my W212 and it was a easy fix thanks to this forum. It is hard to have other people listen to noises that only you can hear and pinpoint. Dealers will just yank apart anything and make it worse.
#25
Thread Starter
Super Member
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 573
Likes: 5
From: Los Angeles
'19 MBZ E450 Wagon, '19 BMW 530e
Reporting back after a month of good driving with few road trips in between. My B-pillar is rattle free.
Team at Keyes European nailed it. I lived up to my promise and bought the foreman/tech/sa BevMo GCs since I can't really bring a few 6-packs to the service center
Team at Keyes European nailed it. I lived up to my promise and bought the foreman/tech/sa BevMo GCs since I can't really bring a few 6-packs to the service center