warranty repair? by replaceing both trim pieces on the hatch? I have already tried the silicone and felt material mod and it doesn't seem to help.
You may ask if rattle eminates from elswhere but I don't think so..it's just a constant rattle while going over rougher roads, or even the road dots.

 

Yes, Carousel in Minneapolis has fixed my hatch trim issues

 

You might also try moving the latch loop to change the latching tension.

 

I have the exact same problem on my 2000 TT, starting to really annoy me. I think I'm going to try to get them to fix it, can't hurt right?

 

you could also try to epoxy the rods to the plastic housing at the pinch points.


T

 

On to the Trim,Assuming it's not a latch tension issue (easy), there are a zillion Spring clips holding it on. They slide into groves molded into the trim piece and snap into the metal hatch. If (1) gets loose or is not seated properly you'll get a rattle. Here's how I dealt with it...

Remove the latch assembly and slide a screwdriver or trim tool between the plastic and the hatch. Gradually pop the clips out of the hatch, moving left to right, then working forward. I left the leading edge of the hatch clipped and just let the rear part hang. If a clip pops out of it's groove in the Trim, you'll have to get in there with needle nose pliers and extract the clip for the hatch metal (PITA BTW)

Now, make sure all the clips are in their gooves on the trim. Cut enough 2 inch circles of felt or some compressible padding for each clip (I used the 3.8 fiber pad like in the TTDA's). Put a slit in the center and slip over each clip. Gradually seat the clips, working from front to back. Make sure they're in the mating goove on the Hatch, and pound into place with your fist. Don't miss one, and make sure they're seated. You've now put some pressure on the clips, that may be rattling in their grooves. Some have trouble with squeaking around the edge. I haven't had that, but a piece of u shaped rubber trim around the perimeter of the trim piece will quiet that down.

They can be banished! Just track em down and eliminate them.

<img src="http://images7.fotki.com/v121/photos/7/7305/776256/hatchtrim-vi.gif">

 

I have tried the spring clips and they are a PITA...I did the silicone and felt application. I still get some rattle...maybe all it needed was tightening. Let's us pray.....

 

maybe I should have just left it alone and taken it to the dealer...bite my tougue.

 

If latch tightening doesn't do it...hello warranty.

 

Now, does tightening correctly mean I hear a louder pop upon hatch release?