What Causes a Pebble-Like Rattling Sound in the Car?
2 Answers
There is a rattling sound in the car resembling small pebbles due to issues with the car door, sunroof, or dashboard. For the car door, first check if the screws are loose. The sunroof rattling is generally normal. Dashboard rattling is usually related to the overall build quality and materials of the car. Below are the detailed reasons: Car Door Rattling: The car door rattles because its structure is relatively simple. First, check if the screws are loose. Sunroof Rattling: Sunroof rattling is generally normal. Over years of use, small pebbles or dust can accumulate in the sunroof tracks, and prolonged lack of tight sealing can cause rattling. Check the sunroof's sealing and replace the sealing strip if necessary. Dashboard Rattling: Dashboard rattling is usually related to the car's overall build quality and materials. Consider whether the dashboard panel has been previously removed, if a navigation system was installed, or if it was reassembled properly. Alternatively, take the car to a repair shop for a thorough inspection.
I've driven for several years and encountered that kind of sound similar to small stones tapping, especially on uneven roads where it becomes more noticeable. The most common cause is small stones actually stuck in the tire tread or lodged in the brake disc, which hit the chassis as the wheels rotate, making a tapping sound. It could also be due to loose suspension components, such as gaps in the shock absorbers or spring joints, where metal hitting metal sounds like small stones falling. It's recommended to first check the tires yourself for any stuck stones—if found, remove them to see if the noise disappears. If that doesn't work, take it to a repair shop for a mechanic to inspect the axle and suspension system thoroughly using a lift. Otherwise, prolonged neglect could damage parts or even affect driving stability. Don't ignore this sound while driving; addressing it early is more reassuring.
