Window, not dash, rattle

[Howard70]

Hello:

Our 2004 DC Tacoma 4x4 has developed an annoying rattle in the driver's side window. If the window is up there is no rattle, but if the window is down it rattles. The passenger side has a much less pronounced rattle, but it is noticeable when the door gets closed with the window down.

Both rattles developed slowly this summer at about 34,000 miles (of course we were on a long trip and returned to Albuquerque with 36K - off waranty...)

Any suggestions? I haven't pulled the door panels off yet so if the solution requires that I'd appreciate any pointers.

Thanks,

Howard L. Snell

[Brian894x4]

I had this problem on my '89 truck and what it was was the side window track came loose. On my '89 there's a bolt on the side of the door near the door's latch. On mine, the bolt worked it's way out and I had to replace it.

I'm guessing the Tacoma has something similier. Good luck.

[flyingwil]

Sounds like you need to pull the door panels off and take a look.


I haven't pulled the door panels off yet so if the solution requires that I'd appreciate any pointers.

In order to perform this operation, you'll need the following tools:

A thin flathead screwdriver
Phillips screwdriver
Door panel trim popper (optional)


First, make sure the window is rolled down all the way. This is the door panel we are working with:
http://www.sierraexpeditions.com/ExPo/Doors/panel1.jpg

Remove the black trim piece attached to the pillar. You can pry it off with a flat head screw driver. It pops right off.
http://www.sierraexpeditions.com/ExPo/Doors/panel3.gif

Next, pop the screw hole covers off the armrest. Again use a thin flat head screw driver and be careful not to scratch the plastic. Remove the screws.
http://www.sierraexpeditions.com/ExPo/Doors/panel4.gif

Next, pop the power window/door lock panel off with a flat head screw driver. Make sure you start with the upper part close to the power mirror switches (see orange arrow). Disconnect wires from the door locks and power window unit.
http://www.sierraexpeditions.com/ExPo/Doors/panel3.jpg http://www.sierraexpeditions.com/ExPo/Doors/panel4.jpg

Next, remove the Phillips screw holding the door handle on. Once this is done push the door handle towards the door hinges and it will release from the door. Then you can pull on it and it will be loose.
http://www.sierraexpeditions.com/ExPo/Doors/panel5.jpg http://www.sierraexpeditions.com/ExPo/Doors/panel6.jpg

The door panel is held on by red plastic tabs that snap into the door itself. Using a flat head screwdriver (or door panel removal tool) pry up on the door panel around the edges. Be careful. They should pop out pretty easy.
http://www.sierraexpeditions.com/ExPo/Doors/panel7.jpg

At this point you should be able to lift up on the door panel and it will release from the top edge. You may have to turn the panel a little to slide the door handle through the opening. Disconnect the cable from the tweeter and your door panel is now off.
http://www.sierraexpeditions.com/ExPo/Doors/panel8.jpg


Hope that helps. (write-up and pictures from CT (http://www.customtacos.com/tech/index.php?article=143))

[Howard70]

You guys are great.

Brian - Thanks for the idea about the externally accessible bolt. I looked for something similar (I also have an 87), but couldn't find an obviously missing piece of hardware.

Will - those are an awesome set of instructions. I'd been reluctant to tear into the door panel after a frustrating experience with our Subaru. That set of photos and pointers you provided from CT makes me fearless. The interior color is even correct for our truck!

I'm into this weekend.

I'll report what I find.

Thanks again,

Howard

[flyingwil]

Howard

No problem. I just remembered that I had a similar experience. It was a higher pitch squeek that came from what seemed to be the front windows on my DC. I took it in under warranty, and they said it was the front shocks. I could have sworn it was the windows. Once I added the SAW's problem solved.