
Reasons for dashboard noise in Honda CR-V: plastic mold deviation, loose plastic mold. Here are the detailed explanations for these two causes: Plastic mold deviation: If the plastic mold has deviations or is improperly installed, mutual friction can cause knocking or loosening noises. Identify the source of the sound to locate the friction point, then cushion it with rubber-like materials for repair. Rubber materials provide excellent buffering effects. If such tools are unavailable, an inner tube from a car tire can also be used as a substitute. Loose plastic mold: If the noise is caused by looseness, it's necessary to first secure the buffer with rubber.

My old CRV has been making creaking noises from the dashboard when going over bumps, especially noticeable in winter when plastic parts get stiff from the cold. Last time at the dealership, they inserted specialized soundproofing foam, and the noise stopped immediately. Behind the instrument panel, there are air conditioning pipes, and if the brackets come loose, they can click against the plastic panels. For those who have modified their navigation systems, check if the wiring harness isn't tightly secured, as it can cause rattling vibrations. Also, if the clock spring in the steering wheel lacks lubrication, it can produce a rustling sound—definitely don't try to dismantle this yourself!

Having worked as a Honda 4S technician for five years, I've handled over a hundred cases of CRV dashboard rattles. There are three common trouble spots: deformed air vent blades causing clattering sounds on bumpy roads, worn glove box latches resulting in constant ticking noises on the right side, and the most troublesome being loose instrument cluster mounting bolts which require steering wheel removal for realignment. For higher trim models with seat heaters, special attention must be paid to wiring harness friction noises - we typically solve this by wrapping the harnesses with velvet tape.

Just helped my neighbor deal with a rattling issue in their CRV last week. Found out it was caused by the plastic cover at the lower edge of the windshield expanding and contracting with temperature changes. Pressing down on the top of the dashboard could reproduce the clicking sound. A quick fix was sliding business cards into the gaps of the cover to alleviate the noise (seriously, it works—don’t laugh). For a long-term solution, it’s necessary to disassemble and apply soundproofing tape. For vehicles with aftermarket large screens, it’s crucial to check if the installation shop forgot to reinstall the dashboard clips.


