Interior - Upper C-Pillar Creaking Noises

Bulletin No: 09-035/10

Last Issued: 07/09/2010

Subject:

CREAKING NOISE FROM UPPER AREA OF C-PILLAR

APPLICABLE MODEL(S) / VINS

2010 Mazda3 (5-door) with VINS lower than JM1BL*H****114991 (produced before April 7, 2010)

DESCRIPTION





Some customers may complain about a creaking noise from the upper area of the c-pillar (A) when driving. This is caused by an improper clearance between the rear pillar inner panel and the corner junction panel. The panels contact each other when driving and cause the noise. To ensure proper clearance, the shape of the rear pillar inner panel has now been changed.

Customers having this concern should have their vehicle repaired using the following repair procedure.

REPAIR PROCEDURE

1. Verify customer concern.

2. Remove the c-pillar trim on the concerned side. Refer to MS3 online service information or Workshop Manual section 09-17 - C-PILLAR TRIM REMOVAL/INSTALLATION.





3. To expand the clearance (A), insert a flathead screwdriver (B) wrapped in vinyl tape between the rear pillar inner panel (C) and the corner junction panel (D), then gently pry open. The clearance should be the thickness of a business card.

4. Install the removed parts in reverse order of removal.

5. Verify repair.





WARRANTY INFORMATION

NOTE:

^ This warranty information applies only to verified customer complaints on vehicles eligible for warranty repair.

^ This repair will be covered under Mazda's New Vehicle Limited Warranty term.

^ Additional diagnostic time cannot be claimed for this repair.





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