Tapping noise coming from behind gauge cluster during cold start

Terrorist 5.0 · Dec 20, 2024

Hi everyone, I've run into a wall with quieting down the interior some. During cold start, there is a faint tapping noise behind the dash, coming mainly from behind the gauge cluster. Now, I had to replace the headlight switch, so while I had the gauge surround trim off, I looked inside and saw nothing out of the ordinary. Making sure no wires are in a position to make noise, I put it back together. The tapping is still there. The one thing that confuses me is that when the car warms up, the noise goes away. The only way I can wrap my head around this is the engine is not running as smooth as it is when warm, and that is causing the rattle. My only question is who has run into something like this, and have they ever fixed it. I've tried applying pressure to every point on the interior, tried with the HVAC vents in different positions, tapped around the dash some, nothing. I can also confirm the belt tensioner is not bottoming out. The only thing I can still try is seeing if something is tapping the firewall in the engine bay. From the looks of it no, but I am going to get someone to firmly hold anything there against the firewall while I sit in the car and listen. Anybody have any advice or answers?

RAU03MACH · Dec 22, 2024

my friend's fusion was making a sound some what like that
ended up being a heater blend door actuator not keeping the door closed steady
slam open and closed

Terrorist 5.0 · Dec 22, 2024

Sorry everyone, I may have found the issue (of course I find it right after posting), i double checked the firewall, and found the cruise control line hitting the strut tower brace. It’s proper location is under the strut tower brace, and it was there, but there is a foam sleeve to insulate any vibrations from the engine. I slipped the sleeve back over and zip tied it back a little. I haven’t tried it yet, but I am fairly sure that was the issue. Should have double checked. My apologies.