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My MDX has a most strange whistle problem. At between 70 and 90 MPH (sometimes more or less, depending on the wind conditions), I hear a quite loud mid frequency whistle/tea kettle/organ pipe like sound that comes and goes with changes in vehicle speed and wind. It appears to sound as if it is coming from the windshield moulding or A Pillar on the driver's side but that may be deceiving. It is definitely not the wind noise problem that some others have commented on.
A dealer has looked in to this and while they agree that it is there and definitely not normal, they are clueless as to what it is or how to fix it. Does anyone else have this problem or have any ideas? It is VERY loud and VERY annoying!
Thanks!
Tom |
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This will probably be useless info, but...
When I took out the plastic/rubber trim strip in the roof rack, the resulting open channel would whistle. Unlike yours, it was pretty clear it was from above. (This is the trim that covers the ski/bike rack mounting channels.)
Good Luck
Ard |
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I have since been able to determine that the whistle is coming from the area of the driver's A pillar. If you place your hand at the junction of the pillar and the windsheild when it is happening you can actually feel it. I'm going to have to investiagate more but it appears to be the molding or channel around the windshield in this area that is causing the problem. It is VERY loud and annoying when it happens, which is usually between 70 and 80 mph, and is dependant on the local wind conditions. I've now received word from one other MDX owner who has the same problem so it is apparently not an isolated event.
Tom
quote:
Originally posted by ardvarkus
This will probably be useless info, but...
When I took out the plastic/rubber trim strip in the roof rack, the resulting open channel would whistle. Unlike yours, it was pretty clear it was from above. (This is the trim that covers the ski/bike rack mounting channels.)
Good Luck
Ard
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I have whistles too! Usually cranking the Bose fixes the problem. But between songs...whistle/wind. If you search "Wind"...you'll find a ton of former posts.
Here's what I've done...so far:
Taped the large triangular holes in the luggage rack at four corners with wide black cloth tape. Similar to duct tape. Make sure you tape it with the ends pointing toward the back...otherwise it unravels...duh. ;)
Filled a small gap in lower front windshield trim. Located just above wider molding. This gap is noisy and probably where you're hearing the mirror noise. Just before outside pillar split on window and adjacent to mirrors. Filled it with styrofoam molding that comes in rolls at Home Depot. Some of it is called "Backer Rod" and used to fill gaps pre-painting. If you push it too hard...it will fall right through to the floor.
Also noticed my plastic channels are loose in my roof rack and might be causing a fairly loud noise up there. One side is worse than the other and I'm not sure if it is supposed to snug in the channels or remain loose...Should I be able to lift the strip from the center? Seems like they cut it a little long and one side gapping in the center...other side is better...but you can still lift it. Any ideas?
Planning on getting the moonroof wind deflector when TIM PUTS IT ON SPECIAL...*hint hint*. This should reduce the moonroof noise. There is considerable noise overhead. Again...the Bose is a temp fix.
Taking a trip up the coast, where we will be at constant 70-80+. I'll probably ride co-pilot most of the way...so I can chase the wind. Or be "Running Against The Wind"... :) Planning on taking molding...tape to test wind theory...but mostly taking a pile of CD's ;)
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No, this has nothing to do with what you are referring to. This is a quite loud tone, almost like the sound of howling or a child's whistle. I happens only at a specific range of speed and is clearly a a piece of metal vibrating like a tuning fork. My next step is to open the window when it happens and to try touching the windshield trim in different places to see what effect that has on it. This is not a subtle wind noise problem...
I've taped the sound for the dealer and we'll see what happens when I next bring it in.
(By the way, mine came with the sunroof wind deflector. I removed and sold it becuase I did not like it, and the wind noise actually appears to be better without it - it's most certainly no worse.)
Tom
[QUOTE]Originally posted by DMor
[B]I have whistles too! Usually cranking the Bose fixes the problem. But between songs...whistle/wind. If you search "Wind"...you'll find a ton of former posts.
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I have it too. I thought maybe it was coming from sunroof. Maybe it is windshield. My husband had the same problem on his Expedition and it was the rubber stuff around the windshield. He took it in and the reset the trim or rubber stuff, whatever that stuff is. I'll have to pay more attention to that.
lmeans
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I have this problem as well. I just returned to Austin from Houston and had the problem most of the way down. The wind gusts were very strong all day and the howling started around 75-80 mph.
Mine seemed to be coming from the driver's side window and it stopped when I rolled the window down. I managed to control the noise by rolling the window up just far enough to seal, but not all the way. This worked for the whole return trip home at an average speed of about 80 mph. |
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I had this same problem in the fall but it seemed to disappear over the winter. However, it has now returned with the warmer weather in the spring. It is a definite moaning sound from around the driver's side mirror when travelling around 75 mph against the wind. Has anybody solved this?
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DMor: The roof channel covers should not be loose. There are 6 threaded posts in each channel. One at each end (both sides) and two sets of two (also on each side) near the middle that the roof rack attaches to. The posts are used to secure both the rack and the cover.
The Base MDX (or a TP w/ rack removed like mine) uses clips attached to the posts to secure the covers. The Base MDX of course has two long covers (one on each side). I have noticed no looseness with them.
The Touring Package (or Base w/ added rack) uses the middle threaded posts to bolt the rack to the roof. The covers (three pieces on each side) are secured by the threads at the ends and by the rack itself. The rack is tightened down on top of the channel covers. It should not be loose. If anything the covers on an MDX with the rack should be MORE securely fastened than one without.
If your channel covers are loose they may not be cut to the right size or the rack may not be fastened down tightly enough. Good luck. |
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quote:
Originally posted by msu79gt82
DMor: The roof channel covers should not be loose. There are 6 threaded posts in each channel. One at each end (both sides) and two sets of two (also on each side) near the middle that the roof rack attaches to. The posts are used to secure both the rack and the cover.
The Base MDX (or a TP w/ rack removed like mine) uses clips attached to the posts to secure the covers. The Base MDX of course has two long covers (one on each side). I have noticed no looseness with them.
The Touring Package (or Base w/ added rack) uses the middle threaded posts to bolt the rack to the roof. The covers (three pieces on each side) are secured by the threads at the ends and by the rack itself. The rack is tightened down on top of the channel covers. It should not be loose. If anything the covers on an MDX with the rack should be MORE securely fastened than one without.
If your channel covers are loose they may not be cut to the right size or the rack may not be fastened down tightly enough. Good luck.
Thanks...If I can't fix this myself, I'll head over to my friendly dealer. I might be able to pick up some pointers by checking out Tim's roof rack installation procedure. Have touring/nav so rack was already factory installed. Thought there was something wrong up there and its probably not helping the wind racket either. One side is very bowed in the middle and the other is tighter. Both probably need some adjustment. It's always something... ;) |
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We've had the exact wind noise problem described - occurs at speeds above 70 MPH, particularly driving into a strong wind, sounds almost like a kazoo blowing inside the dash or along the passenger front window. After two discussions with our Accura service rep, he told me Accura is aware of the issue, believes the problem is connected to the side mirrors in some way and are working a fix.
Anyone else discussed this with Service? |
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A Kazoo is the perfect description of the sound! I'm glad to know that it is not a totally isolated problem and that a fix is in the works. I haven't had mine in for service yet but will bring it up (along with some other issues) when I do.
Tom
quote:
Originally posted by pjrubin
We've had the exact wind noise problem described - occurs at speeds above 70 MPH, particularly driving into a strong wind, sounds almost like a kazoo blowing inside the dash or along the passenger front window. After two discussions with our Accura service rep, he told me Accura is aware of the issue, believes the problem is connected to the side mirrors in some way and are working a fix.
Anyone else discussed this with Service?
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Yes, Kazoo is probably the closest thing I've heard so far.
I was thinking of something like blowing randomly on a song flute for a few seconds to produce the noise. It was definitely not a whistling sound.
This is defeinitely happening to me, but not frequent.
Actually, it was so loud it scared the cr** out of me.
The conditions that I've experienced it is fairly consistent with what has been said here. Driving at high speeds, 70+, and lots of wind, usually a crosswind that is strong enough to move the MDX from its path. The sound also appears to be coming from somewhere around the A-Pillar.
If it is related to the molding, then whistling or an instant noise would depend on how bad the moulding is.
I saw on the nhtsa web site that the Odyssey had issues with the moulding and wind noise. I wonder if they are related.
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Since you guys brought this up again...I am immune from any thrashing from "GEEZER" members. ;)
I popped the hood...noticed molding around underside of hood and molding around engine area. I also noticed gaping holes behind the hood hinges. Now...theory only...mind you...but...grill placement on Acura is higher than most...wind comes in through grill...possibly bypasses center of engine because of well placed molding. However, no molding around sides and high speeds creates a wind tunnel effect through there as the side channels are deep. Thus the easiest escape is through the holes behind the hinges and from there...has host of noisy exits...mirrors...roof...even around the windshield...but wind noise might be coming from wind trapped within the vehicle as introduced under the hood and not necessarily wind coming directly at it from the outside...if you know what I mean. Just a thought. But after reading complaints about noisey posts...etc...I'm curious.
Cross wind noise could be enhanced by wind entering hollow space immediately behind headlights and traveling up fenders...panels...whatever they're called. Obviously wind can come in through hood seams...but after looking and taking speed into consideration...I'm suspicious of those hollow holes behind the hinges.
While driving about 80MPH yesterday...I was feeling the molding surrounding the windshield. I could actually feel a little draft which told me that is it NOT coming from an obvious leak in the seal...but within the hollow metal surrounding the window. So...the speed is compressing the air...and you guys who are engineers out there can figure out the rest...if there's anything to figure.
Meanwhile...I'm suffing some spongy foam material behind those hinges and will test this theory. |
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Mogur etal.,
The A pillars are hollow and thus could allow air coming into the engine compartment to travel up the open space due to openings behind the hinges. If any of you have been to church lately, a hollow tube round or otherwise with air enter it acts like an organ pipe. A sound will occur at what ever the resonant frequency of the channel is. The fact that people have observed this sound at specific speeds lends some credibility to this organ pipe theory. To prove it, stuff some non-permanent material in each A pillar opening behind the hood hinges and see if the kazoo sound disappears. If so, you have found the likely culprit. Plugging the channel completely might not be the best solution if water drains into it from the roof, but if not this may be a fix. I have not notice this sound with my MDX but I feel (hear?) your pain none the less.
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I'll look in to this as the problem has become MUCH more severe of late. It now does it most all of the time from about 70 to 85 mph. We just took a trip to Vegas and back this weekend, and we Kazooed most all of the way there and back - quite loudly in fact. (I don't know if this increase in severity is due to the vehicle aging and/or the warmer weather...) On my vehicle, it is from the driver's side A pillar and if you feel the area where the windshield mets the pillar with a finger, you can definitely feel the vibration from the sound most intensely up near the top of the pillar. Rooling down the window seems to have alittle effect on my MDX. It's interesting that it is becoming more severe with time as it barely existed when new. Of course, both Acura Customer Care and the dealer say that "Gee, we've never heard of this problem before and this is the first report that we have received..." Please, give me a break!
Has anyone had any definitive luck solving this probem to date?
Tom
quote:
Originally posted by remery
Mogur etal.,
The A pillars are hollow and thus could allow air coming into the engine compartment to travel up the open space due to openings behind the hinges. If any of you have been to church lately, a hollow tube round or otherwise with air enter it acts like an organ pipe. A sound will occur at what ever the resonant frequency of the channel is. The fact that people have observed this sound at specific speeds lends some credibility to this organ pipe theory. To prove it, stuff some non-permanent material in each A pillar opening behind the hood hinges and see if the kazoo sound disappears. If so, you have found the likely culprit. Plugging the channel completely might not be the best solution if water drains into it from the roof, but if not this may be a fix. I have not notice this sound with my MDX but I feel (hear?) your pain none the less.
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I'm not sure that this is a pillar noise problem per se, but I'm willing to try almost anything to excorcize it, so I'll give it a shot. It WOULD be nice if Acura came up with an "official" fix however, or at least acknowledged the problem and that they were, in fact, working on it...
Tom
quote:
Originally posted by DMor
Take a look at the pictures in this past thread, if you haven't already seen it. It seems to help with the pillar noise.
http://www.acuramdx.org/forums/show...56&pagenumber=2
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quote:
Originally posted by mogur
I'm not sure that this is a pillar noise problem per se, but I'm willing to try almost anything to excorcize it, so I'll give it a shot. It WOULD be nice if Acura came up with an "official" fix however, or at least acknowledged the problem and that they were, in fact, working on it...
Tom
I have 'stuffed' several areas with foam. When you pop the hood, you will notice hollow areas directly behind the headlights where air could travel up the fenders. I stuffed those with foam. The foam is pretty dirty, which leads me to believe that a fair amount of wind travels...or attempts to travel, through that area. In addition, you'll notice a seal toward the rear of the engine attached to the black plastic piece; make sure this is not crimped and has good contact with the seal under the hood.
Well, I hope this at least helps your problem. Be sure to 'report back' to all'us pioneers! |
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I experienced Wind Whistle for the first time on my second major road trip last week. Seemed to be an isolated one time experience thus far. It occurred at 70-75 mph driving through Oklahoma Panhandle on an EXTREMELY windy day. It sounded like a loud whistle coming from driver windshield area. It surprised me at first, but then I remembered this thread!!
I did not hear it on the return trip driving at same speed through same area (less windy)...nor have I heard it again since!!
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| I had the same problem - kazoo/tea kettle issue over 60 mph. My dealer (with the help of these posts) removed and replaced the seal on the windshield. No more problem. |
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| I am also still having this problem, which is becoming increasingly annoying. I am going for a drive tomorrow with the Service Foreman from the local Acura dealer so that they can (hopefully) hear what I have been experiencing. I will let you all know if they have a solution. |
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| I had the typical experience of taking the MDX in to the dealer to have them check the whistling sound, and then all was quiet when they took it out for a test drive. It was clear that they were at a total loss as to what to do. It was also clear that no one else at that dealership had experienced a similar problem. I think I will try stuffing foam up the area around the driver's side A-pillar and see what happens. However, it is hard to believe that this is the optimal solution. |
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I'm taking mine in next week for routine service and a few warranty issues and plan to have them tackle this problem again then. I've taped the sound for them on a cassette recorder so that they will know exactly what we are referring to...
Tom
quote:
Originally posted by mdxcda
I had the typical experience of taking the MDX in to the dealer to have them check the whistling sound, and then all was quiet when they took it out for a test drive. It was clear that they were at a total loss as to what to do. It was also clear that no one else at that dealership had experienced a similar problem. I think I will try stuffing foam up the area around the driver's side A-pillar and see what happens. However, it is hard to believe that this is the optimal solution.
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Wild thought...but here tis:
Have you thought about having someone hold a leaf blower or a vacuum with blow-up capabilities near the hinge under your open hood? Sounds stupid, but might be easier than trying to recreate wind/whistle/moan noises on the road and you could point the air where you wanted it. At least we'd confirm if the wind travels up the pillar from under the hood. |
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Not a bad idea! I have a shop vac and just may try that. I'm sure that the air velocity from one is at least 70 or 80 mph... I'd be curious what others find if they also try it.
Tom
quote:
Originally posted by DMor
Wild thought...but here tis:
Have you thought about having someone hold a leaf blower or a vacuum with blow-up capabilities near the hinge under your open hood? Sounds stupid, but might be easier than trying to recreate wind/whistle/moan noises on the road and you could point the air where you wanted it. At least we'd confirm if the wind travels up the pillar from under the hood.
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Hi -
I bought an MDX in November 2000, drove it to Las Vegas from Northern Calif., never heard the noise. That vehicle was totalled on the freeway by a jack-knifing semi with two trailers. (Scary, yes, but the car protected me extremely well.) I got a second MDX at the end of March 2001. It has the moaning organpipe/kazoo problem. I have been very insistent with my dealer that the problem is real, though they say they haven't heard of it before. I can speak with authority since I have had experience with two different MDX's. In my particular vehicle the sound occurs above 70 mph, seems to be coming from the driver's door near the A-pillar and always occurs when there are crosswinds coming from the right. The dealer hasn't fixed the problem yet, but they will. I don't see any reason why I should try to figure it out and fix it myself. |
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I took mine in for sevice and some warranty work about a month ago and took the Service Manager out for a ride. Much to my happy surprise, it made the "sound" like gang busters! His response was, "That is the most amazing thing I have ever heard. It really IS annoying!" After some diagnosis they are of the opinion that it is the windshield moulding and they have ordered a new one. I'm not certain I share their diagnosis sentiments but have to "work through the system...": I suspect that the windshield seal is a more likely culprit but bristle at the thought of them pulling the windshield and resealing it... The moulding has not yet come in but when it is and is installed, I'll share the results with the group.
Tom
quote:
Originally posted by skim
Hi -
I bought an MDX in November 2000, drove it to Las Vegas from Northern Calif., never heard the noise. That vehicle was totalled on the freeway by a jack-knifing semi with two trailers. (Scary, yes, but the car protected me extremely well.) I got a second MDX at the end of March 2001. It has the moaning organpipe/kazoo problem. I have been very insistent with my dealer that the problem is real, though they say they haven't heard of it before. I can speak with authority since I have had experience with two different MDX's. In my particular vehicle the sound occurs above 70 mph, seems to be coming from the driver's door near the A-pillar and always occurs when there are crosswinds coming from the right. The dealer hasn't fixed the problem yet, but they will. I don't see any reason why I should try to figure it out and fix it myself.
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| pjrubin |
We also had our windshield moulding redone/replaced in response to this noise problem. It did not fix the problem.
This weekend, I tried out DMor's fix using packing foam to close the air passage into the passenger side A Pillar. The noise was about 80% reduced, though still audible. This seems to indicate that the problem is related to airflow in this area. I'm getting ready to go back to the dealer with this finding... more later. |
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| DMor |
PJ...I don't know exactly WHERE you packed in addition to the hinge area...but I also packed all the holes...gaps along the front fender right down to the area just behind the headlights.
Because of the design of the grill (above and below) and the shape of the engine compartment, I believe the wind probably tunnels through the sides of the engine compartment at significang speeds. The foam in the fender gap, just behind my headlights, is always dirty. I believe this might be linked to some of the crosswind noises heard by other members.
I wonder if those members with the "front trim" are experiencing a lot of wind noise. My theory is that the front trim MIGHT actually help deflect the wind downward, which might reduce the noise?
My wind noise is now centered along the top of the windshield. It's significantly reduced through a myriad of "fixes", but still fairly obvious at freeway speeds. |
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| tdnone |
quote:
Originally posted by DMor
...
My wind noise is now centered along the top of the windshield. It's significantly reduced through a myriad of "fixes", but still fairly obvious at freeway speeds.
Hi DMOR,
I thought you have fixed the wind noise at the windshield with the screening spline. I just finally bought it and is about to put it in for this weekend camping trip. My windnoise is mostly at highway speed 60+ (I admit it is quite hard to keep the speed below 70)but it is as bad as on my wife sedan (Avalon XLS). I hope that the screening spline will substantially reduce the wind noise (not quite sure due primarily the windshield or roof rack).
:confused::confused::confused: |
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| DMor |
Do Not Despair! :D The Screen spline definitely HELPS....but does not eliminate the noise completely. It probably reduced about 80% of it. I would go ahead and spline it for sure though. I think you will find it helps a lot. :)
There are others who've done this because I've received several PM/emails for further instructions. Maybe someone can report back?
We should be careful about this topic though. I've just noticed that Dancall is back after a brief "forum departure" and I'm sure he'll be blowing some HOT AIR this way!! :D:D |
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| GGMDX |
| I have had my MDX 'splined' for the last two month now after getting DMOR's instructions. I can tell you it defintely reduces the wind noise by more than half, especially going towards the wind. The whole process takes less than one hour including the trip to HD. |
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| tdnone |
DMOR,
I just sent you a PM. Thanks in advance.
GGMDX,
Thanks for your feedback. Really appreciate it.
Cheers, :):):) |
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| DMor |
For anyone interested in further explanations....email me at dmoremail@netscape.net. The new PM format only allows for 1,000 words/characters or something and I believe this includes the original sender's question. Anyway...not much room for explanations. :)
In addition: I also revised the instructions on my original post on page 1. I hope it's a little clearer now. Spline at your own risk! :):) |
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| tdnone |
Hi DMor and all,
I have just installed the wind silencer (screening spline, you know) as specified by DMor. It was GREAT... and YES, I now barely notice front wind noise at 70~75 mph. I said the front wind since I still have some cross wind noise. Perhaps due to the higher molding edge on the sides of the windshield.
I have found a great tool to install the spline. I used the "round bare bamboo chopstick" as the tool. It does not mar or scratch your paint or molding. The small end is used on the top of the windshield and the larger end for the sides. It just covers the top of the opening and by holding the chopstick steady, just move it as if you are applying the caulking material. It inserts the spline into the groved opening in very uniform depth. It took me 3 minutes to complete the whole installation start to finish following DMor instruction. I dare not use the spline insertion tool which I had for the actual window screen work.
The best part is: it WORKS :D:D and nobody will even notice that it is there ;);)
I am still wondering what hidden feature that Acura has in mind for those small groved opening around the windshield :confused::confused::confused:
Cheers :) |
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| DMor |
THANKS Tdnone! I'm glad it worked for you! I'm also receiving several emails for instructions...so, I will repost here and also refer the original link with pics for further reference.
In addition to using a screwdriver to apply spline, it sounds like TD used a chopstick for installation rather than a screwdriver...Great idea. :)
HERE'S the old link with information/pics :
http://www.acuramdx.org/forums/show...15&pagenumber=1
AND...here's the instructions as previously posted:
Home Depot -- Screening Spline... .175" dia x 25'
To get a good idea of how much spline you will need. Start at top of windshield and make sure you've got enough on both sides to run down sides and tuck into that rectangular molding at the bottom side of the windshield. Loosely tuck into side and run around ‘til you get to the top. You notice a tighter fit across the top. Place spline into the existing groove/gap. It will probably require some pressure. Wrap a screwdriver in a towel or something to protect the finish in case you slip off.
**Do not disturb** the existing windshield seal. You do not have to lift anything. You're simply ‘tucking’ into existing grooves. If desired, you should be able to grab an end and pull it out with reasonable ease if necessary and without a trace and without damaging the existing seal.
If you need something to anchor the ends of the Spline, try some 3/8" Frost King Backer Rod. Comes in a big roll and often used for caulking over wall joints. A small piece of this or something LIKE this will keep enough pressure on the bottom of each side to add additional security. Be sure to secure the spline by tucking a few inches into the rectangular molding at the bottom/side of the windshield on both sides.
As in all homemade fixes in this site...you experiment at your own risk, gang. I've driven over 4K miles without "spline flap"..."spline loss"...or any other spline mishaps. I don't know how this will react in the CAR WASH...I hand wash my chariot! I've driven through wind and rain without issue.
**Since I'm talking about 'backer rod'...and if you get some. In SO CAL I use it on the outside of my window frame bases around my house. They're designed to drain...but have this gap in there and bugs love to get into my house through the drain holes. So...I run this stuff along the bottom of the outside windows; tucks in and hides perfectly, pulls in and out for window washing. But best of all...no more bugs! :) |
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| kenkneeb |
We get a lovely occilation/resonant cavity/kazoo-like reedy whistle/moan/hum, which I believe is a result of the air rushing around and in between the driver's outside rear view mirror housing and the mirror, which is creating a defined size and shape opening, which then functions like the reed on a saxaphone and it's mouthpiece. Hey, we got a woodwind here. Is that a dealer installed option?... an unadvertised special.
When we travel on I5, between Oregon and California, at approx. 75mph - during slight to mderate cross wind on the driver's side, in both the northerly and southerly directions, we get that reedy, whistle, moan, which I believe is an A# above middle C. Nes paux? It is an elusive little sound at that.
Hollow A pillars could be a contributor too as the pillars are indeed hollow, with no sound deadening material whasoever. Just cables and wires and the romantic rush of freeway pavement under your keester.
What I really want to know is, "If this a signal from the mothership, will I be to what to do and where to go?
Does the manual cover this subject?
enjoy the ride.
kenkneeb:cool: |
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| mogur |
Re: Loud Kazoo/Tea Kettle/Organ Pipe like sound from the area of the driver's side A Pillar at over 70 MPH (sometimes more or less, depending on the prevailing wind conditions):
If your vehicle has (or had) this problem, please
register it in the problem/knowledge database on this site so that we can get an accurate count of
those so inflicted and what has been done to attempt to rectify the problem. I've also opened a case on this with Acura Client Services and I strongly suggest that everyone else with this problem do likewise. The more input and complaints ACS gets, the more likely they are to take this problem seriously and commit resources to finding a proper fix.
Thanks!
Tom |
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| mogur |
The concensus of opinion is that it is caused by air entering the bottom of the A Pillar and resonating it and/or the surrounding metal like an organ pipe. Acura so far has been unable to fix the problem. As you will see from reading the messages in this forum, some have affected homemade fixes that seem to help... Interestingly, it only seems to affect the driver's side as I've seen no reports of the sound from the passenger's side A Pillar...
Tom
quote:
Originally posted by kenkneeb
We get a lovely occilation/resonant cavity/kazoo-like reedy whistle/moan/hum, which I believe is a result of the air rushing around and in between the driver's outside rear view mirror housing and the mirror.
kenkneeb:cool:
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| tdnone |
quote:
Originally posted by mogur
The concensus of opinion is that it is caused by air entering the bottom of the A Pillar and resonating it and/or the surrounding metal like an organ pipe. Acura so far has been unable to fix the problem. As you will see from reading the messages in this forum, some have affected homemade fixes that seem to help... Interestingly, it only seems to affect the driver's side as I've seen no reports of the sound from the passenger's side A Pillar...
Tom
Hi Tom,
While installing my spline, I did notice that the openness and hollowness of the whole A pillar from the bottom (looking at it when the hood is lifted up). There are openings there and air can flow both from outside of the hood and inside from the engine compartment to these openings and onto the pillar and rear view mirror. Even though I do not have experience of the kazoo/moaning/etc noise, I did experience the occasional "strong" blowing of water in my driver mirror after a wash. This blowout does not occur in city streets until I hit the freeway. The passenger mirror did not get water blown out and keep on dripping for another day. It is a coincidence, isn't it. I will be on the lookout again this weekend after washing the car.
I will go camping this weekend and will do a lot of freeways at high speed in area known for cross winds. Will pay attention to see if the noise happens.
Cheers :):):) |
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| DMor |
Because some are experiencing "pillar noise"..."water whip" (new term!!:)) and others are NOT...I am wondering if the mirror settings have anything to do with this pillar noise...water thang?
I noticed that my driver mirror is angled slightly more outward...leaving a larger gap on the lower right area than my passenger side mirror, which has a smaller gap on the lower left area.
If wind travels around the mirrors and catches this gap and deflects off the back side of the mirror, it certainly could cause more noise on one side vs. the other side, and obviously more pressure would cause 'water whip' and possibly contribute to pillar noise.
So...wondering if a slight mirror adjustment will make any difference for those with pillar noise? Also...mirrors should be adjusted well away from the side of your MDX...if you see the SKIN on either side of your car from your normally seated position...you're not effectively covering the "blind spot".
I copied and posted an article from a "member only" forum which discusses proper mirror adjustment. You'll have to scroll to the second POST as indicated. http://www.acuramdx.org/forums/show...ight=Blind+Spot |
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| mogur |
I normally have my mirrors adjusted well out as they should be but it's an interesting hypothesis... Since we are moving the mirror itself, however, and not the housing, I question how much affect it could have... Also, I can feel the vibration with my finger at the junction of the pillar and the windshield, and it is much stronger at the top of the pillar, which is furthest away from the mirror. Nonetheless, I'll try different mirror adjustments next time I'm out and "on tune" and see what the effect is, if any.
Tom
quote:
Originally posted by DMor
I noticed that my driver mirror is angled slightly more outward...leaving a larger gap on the lower right area than my passenger side mirror, which has a smaller gap on the lower left area.
So...wondering if a slight mirror adjustment will make any difference for those with pillar noise? Also...mirrors should be adjusted well away from the side of your MDX...if you see the SKIN on either side of your car from your normally seated position...you're not effectively covering the "blind spot".
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| kenkneeb |
:) Mirror, Mirror on the Truck
Why you drippin' 'n quackin like a duck?
Are you needing personal expression
or just a little past life regression.
Was you an organ, mallard or miller
or were you Lot's wife who became
"A Pillar"?
Give us your wisdom,
don't keep us in the dark,
tell us what you're singin' about.
Must we pack you with foam, rod and spline
just to keep you from singing part time?
Stop this mystery, show yourself right now
for the next thing you know
you'll be bellowing like a cow.
ah-ooohh-gah,
mdx comin' through :~)
MOOOOOOOOve Over
kenkneeb |
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| wmquan |
| Teehee ... I know it's not funny to the folks who have the problem, but I liked it. |
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| AtlantaMDX |
| Ah, what the heck. I have the problem and I liked it too! :) |
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| mogur |
I believe that it is inappropriate in a forum where people are attempting to seriously discuss a problem and the fixes therefore... And it most certainly will not help promote Acura to take this site seriously now or in the future...
quote:
Originally posted by kenkneeb
:) Mirror, Mirror on the Truck
Why you drippin' 'n quackin like a duck?
kenkneeb
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| kenkneeb |
M'ogre
Repeat after me:
Holocaust - Serious
Truck singing :HA HA HA HA
Columbine - Serious
Truck singing :HA HA HA HA
Sing and whole universe sings with you.
Who know's what key we're in?
Lighten Up.
kenkneeb |
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| mogur |
It just proves that there is at least "one" in every group...
quote:
Originally posted by kenkneeb
kenkneeb
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| kenkneeb |
It's a numbers game.
As A. Whitney Brown said:
"If I were a One-In-A-Million kind of guy and I lived in China, there'd be a thousand of me".
Mogur, we're everywhere!!
But "seriously", I did try our Sears 15 gal. wet or dry vac in the "blowing" mode and couldn't duplicate the tone. Perhaps it's a 70+ mph frontal combined with a certain magnitude side wind vector, calculus mutliple "undefined causes" sort of thing.
We're heading on a 1000 mile trip in a couple of days, I'll keep my stethoscope handy.
kenkneeb :D :D |
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| RayBone108 |
| Count Me In. wHile DrIvinG tO MiStic Ct aBout (120 miles * 2)AwAy. I hear A howling NoiSe inSide mY MDX, when tHe CD stOp tO cHange Tracks. I Lower The Box! was i shock aNd Mad. I will bE callinG mY DeaLer at Valley Stream lIke yEstErdaY. The woRld Wants tO Keep Us dOwn Yet Our Lord Will Allways LifT us Up. I'm sO gLad foR The MDXer's BrotHerhOOd aNd for tHe WisdoM & Knowledge They wEre Bless With! May tHe cLoud aLlWays foLLow Us in oUr MDX!:cool: :confused: :mad: This iS RayBone 108 4 U; It's written, "Go Into All The world and preach the good news to all Greation," |
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| tdnone |
Hi All,
Reporting back from my weekend camping trip in Central CA with the spline (not foam or rod) installed, the front wind noise is substantially reduced. There is not much cross wind so I cannot detect any whistle/moan. My average speed is 75 mph on I5 and route 99.
Just washed the MDX after the camping but have not driven it on the freeway yet. Will report of any water whip (DMor's definition - I like it :) ) tomorrow when I will drive it (I alternate car every day).
Cheers :):):) |
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| mogur |
Why do I feel like I am reading a ransom note ?...
On a more serious note, ACS has told me that they HAVE to replace
the windshield molding first to see if that cures the problem siince that
was the dealer's diagnosis... The fact that a number of others with the
same problem have had their molding replaced with no improvement
apparently is irrelevant... And worse, three months later I'm still waiting for the molding to arrive.
In talking with Eric Thomas, the ACS rep, I got the impression that he had not read my letter to ACS or any of the accompanying documentation very throughly as he kept asking questions and making statements that were throughly covered in what I had sent... I was not left with a warm and fuzzy feeling after my chat, but I'll give him the benefit of the doubt and see what happens. I'm supposed to hear back shortly from him on the status of my molding replacement. (I've put off DMor's fix until after this issue is addressed so as to not taint the evidence.)
Tom
quote:
Originally posted by RayBone108
Count Me In. wHile DrIvinG tO MiStic Ct aBout (120 miles * 2)AwAy. I hear A howling NoiSe inSide mY MDX, when tHe CD stOp tO cHange Tracks. I Lower The Box! was i shock aNd Mad. I will bE callinG mY DeaLer at Valley Stream lIke yEstErdaY.
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| DMor |
There are some little gaps around the lower inside portion of the pillar, near the windshield. I would fill those with some foam as an experiment and just SEE if that cures it. Also, I would stick some packing material/foam behind the hinge under the hood. NOT that this is a permanent solution...but at least you'd KNOW where the noise is coming from...or not.
I would try these things before I let them start ripping out my window seal...IMO. |
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| tdnone |
quote:
Originally posted by tdnone
Hi All,
...
Just washed the MDX after the camping but have not driven it on the freeway yet. Will report of any water whip (DMor's definition - I like it :) ) tomorrow when I will drive it (I alternate car every day).
Cheers :):):)
Yep, I got water whipped again. Two for two. But then no weeping on the driver side, but weeping on the passenger side and no water whip :confused:
:mad: :eek: |
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| roadrunner |
| In our part of the world driving at speeds between 75 and 90 most often results in a loud siren like noise ........ often accompanied by a flashing blue light. |
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| donsev |
quote:
Originally posted by roadrunner
In our part of the world driving at speeds between 75 and 90 most often results in a loud siren like noise ........ often accompanied by a flashing blue light.
Yes Roadrunner, I can (unfortunately) attest to the efficiency of Officer Holcombe of Greenville.
And he didn't just want to see that shiny new MDX from out of state :mad: |
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| roadrunner |
| YOU'RE IN A HEAP OF TROUBLE NOW, BOY!! |
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| sajakake |
Anyone able to create a fix for this whistle/organ tone in the "A" Pillar. I too have been accompanied by "THE TONE" and would like to eliminate it.
I've read DMOR's advisements and wonder if anyone else have had success with it or any other home fixes. It's simply annoying.
cheers, saja;) |
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| cardingtr |
I too(well, my MDX) have the same problem. We were driving south to Mexico at around 80mph with strong crosswinds when this sound that lasted probably a sec made me and my wife jump off our seat. Its loud. I thought the driver side window was opened by the wind I kept trying to pull it up. The sound is like you are pulling down the window while driving fast (almost sounds like it) It happened twice and twice jumped us off our seat!!
Why it only happens on the driver side mystified me.
I will check the glass window if its got some play if pushed since I didn't see it from the post that its been checked.
I thought I'm the only one experiencing this problem until today. |
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| cardingtr |
I checked the driver side glass window while fully closed and sure enough you can push it in and it even have a little knocking feel. Its kinda loose. Theres nothing like it on the drivers side.
Not sure about this but its worth looking.
If thats the problem could be when the window is pushed in (70mph+crosswind) creating a gap then the trim vibrates against the glass. |
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| kenkneeb |
I called Acura Cust Service and reported this problem. The rep. said that he had never heard of the problem and that he was logging in my call and passing on to engineering. Into the round file, we'll never know.
Everyone, pick up the phone and call Acura to report the problem. Perhaps when their ears get warm, they'll allocate resources to find a fix for the problem.
kenkneeb:) |
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| mogur |
Well, my MDX just spent a week at the dealer for a variety of fixes(SRS light, Nav DVD problem, wheel vibration, Thud fix, VTM-4 leak) including an attempt to fix the infamous Kazoo/pipe organ/tea kettle sound problem. I'm happy to report that seem to have been successful on all acounts except the vibration. I have not been able to recreate the Kazoo problem since and I was able to do it every time before. They replaced the windshield, seal, and molding. The glass shop that did the job reported that the seal had a number of voids in it. I've also measured the noise level inside the vehicle and is 1 1/2 Db quieter on average now.
We'll see if the repair holds...
Tom |
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| kcl |
Two days earlier driving at 75mph with strong cross wind I experienced a frightening whistle/resonance sound. I thought some mechanical failure was imminent. Now I am relieved that this is yet another wind noise problem. So the question now becomes: how to fix it. I am about to try Dmor's screening spline method today or tomorrow because I'm planning a long trip this weekend and the wind noise at 75mph will be too distracting.
Also, a question to Mogur, what kind of wheel vibration did you encounter and how did the dealer fixed it? Thanks! |
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| jeych |
| I found i could do away with the noise by placing a 30 inch stripe of 1 1/2 wide tape along the driver side pilar starting at about 8 inches from the top of the windshield, right over the windshield rubber seal, touching the metal as well as the glass. Funny thing everyone asks what the hell that is for, my reply: only way to fix 37000 dollar vehicle purchased from company that has no clue what customer service means. this car is going back to its creator anyway, i am filing a lemon law claim this week in regards to one of the many issueds i had with it. Just sick of this |
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| mogur |
It is your classic out of balance type of vibration that you feel both through the steeering and the seat - mild but annoying - and the answer to your question is ... they didn't! They rebalanced all the tires but it is still there. I suspect that, assuming they got the balance right, I may have a wheel runout or tire problem. We'll be trying this one again at the next service visit or I may just visit one of the better tire shops here and let them take a look at it.
Tom
quote:
Originally posted by kcl
Also, a question to Mogur, what kind of wheel vibration did you encounter and how did the dealer fixed it? Thanks!
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| BellTeck |
I have the Kazoo on my X and not only noticed it but I have it recorded on Videotape while driving on the highway on my trip to MS .. an amazing and annoying sound. It scares the hell out of you if your not ready for it.
TECK! |
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| tdnone |
Hi BellTek,
Can you send that tape to Acura Corporate to get an explanation? ;) |
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| BellTeck |
texrb,
I dont think that Acura ever wants to hear from me again LOL!! :rolleyes: But YES, I would send a copy of this to them ( for a nice wood shift knob ;) )
TECK! |
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| mogur |
Maybe he can Mpeg it and we can download it...
Tom
quote:
Originally posted by BellTeck
I have the Kazoo on my X and not only noticed it but I have it recorded on Videotape while driving on the highway on my trip to MS .. an amazing and annoying sound. It scares the hell out of you if your not ready for it.
TECK!
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