Rear thud sound going over bumps - not the ballbearing in a can sound

[Dan1028]

So my advice is: "If it ain't broke, don't bother with it."

How do you know it's not broken? If people don't report these kinds of things, they never get addressed. Maybe it's not supposed to make that sound. Maybe Kia should take a listen and be the ones to report it as "normal operation."

 

[MerlintheMad]

How do you know it's not broken? If people don't report these kinds of things, they never get addressed. Maybe it's not supposed to make that sound. Maybe Kia should take a listen and be the ones to report it as "normal operation."

If "it" doesn't sound or feel broken, why should I assume that it is? Others have said that they think the "thump/thud" is a normal sound. The very faint, infrequent sound I heard from the back has not repeated since the weather warmed up.

 

[Ty Davis]

All my earlier comments on this forum are directed at reality. When "multiple" people complain about an issue, someone always chimes in eventually and makes the problem bigger; sometimes even asserting that "all" Stingers are affected. That's when I chime in and say "no, not all: mine doesn't." And off we go.

On this thread, I mentioned what I heard in my car, then presented a few possible causes to look into.

In this specific case: It seems likely that something in the way the rear end works causes a "thump" sound when calling on the car to perform (as opposed to just driving the car normally). When I am accelerating and cornering in a "spirited" manner, I don't expect the car to remain quiescent and noise free. So any additional noises that manifest under more demanding conditions are considered "normal operation." That is a Kia manual phrase I've run into many times. Notably under Brembo "high performance" brakes. "Scratching" or "rrrrr sound" is explained as "normal operation" and not a defect, etc. This "thump/thud" sound when going over bumps, especially at speed, shouldn't be bothering anybody. It's in a completely separate class of car noises from a continuous and irritating "rattle".

So my advice is: "If it ain't broke, don't bother with it." Don't expect perfection. Don't set your expectations of a complex machine so high.

Again, I can, and do respect, that your experience is different.
Our experience is a direct result of our knowledge, expectations, operating environment, and sensitivity.
I will admit I am a stickler for refinement. That being said, I take few issues with the Stinger under “demanding” conditions. When pushed hard, the vehicle comports itself very well.

The improvements I would like to see are evident in day to day regular driving.
If you can’t detect (or don’t have) an issue being talked about that is a good thing...
But to accuse me of “bashing” the Stinger because I am familiar with the issue is overstepping.
Don’t be so dismissive of others and their concerns. Mind you, I am never in a thread just talking to myself. Any issue I have spoken on has had multiple people with the same issue. Telling all of those people to “live with it” “it’s not broke, don’t fix it” fails to further the platform or that individual.

I haven’t experienced the brake rotor issues many people have complained about, on my own particular vehicle.
But I’m not gonna dismiss the countless people who have logged on here, other places on the net, and even magazine reviews, by telling them Stinger brakes can’t get better leave it alone.

Even though I haven’t had the issue, I can appreciate that others have, and want to provide a solution to them (and possibly myself if my rotors start causing vibration). The issue is common enough, that yes, I’d like to see Kia make the braking system more robust.

Back to this thump, though...
You say leave it alone... No, Kia needs this feedback. User that hear the thump need to know that many Stingers do the same. Potential buyers need to know to listen for it during a test drive, so that they can make a more informed purchase decision. Camry, Accord, Altima, Malibu, 3-series, Xf, xe, Gs, Is, CT’s, etc... ride without this sound. It is not too high of expectation that the Kia also do so as well.

Again, cars are my passion and I drive quite a few examples of lots of models... That affords me a clear picture of what is normal, or unique, or distinctly different from the rest of the herd. The Stinger is damned good. But I will assure you that Kia still has work to do. If you think I harshly criticize the Stinger, you should drop by the BMW forums and see how we lambasted BMW for things like Steering feel, rear suspension bounce on the 3 series, and turbo failures. The end result was people being more aware of issues and subsequently BMW making changes (sometimes, mid year) to correct or improve those issues. The forum members frequently put there heads together and pioneered fixes, even before BMW could or would.

This is not about expecting to much. Your expectations are what they are. And that is fine. But let’s not be dismissive to those who desire Stinger (as a whole) to be even better than it is. You’ve made it clear that you think the Stinger is just about perfect (for you) as is. Kia has some pretty lofty expectations of Stinger, themselves. They need this feedback to get there... The mentality of “it’s good enough, as is” wont help propel Stinger to the next level. Especially, not when there are a good handful of issues that need to be addressed to be on par with its premium and regular sedan competition.

 

[Ty Davis]

If "it" doesn't sound or feel broken, why should I assume that it is? Others have said that they think the "thump/thud" is a normal sound. The very faint, infrequent sound I heard from the back has not repeated since the weather warmed up.

Don’t take this the wrong way (i.e. bashing)...
But do be aware that Camry, Accord, Maxima, 3series, Cts, Corolla, Civic, Accord, Malibu, Sentra, LS, GS, IS, A3/4/5/6/7, etc... don’t thump in *any* temperature... If a priority for the Stinger, Kia could very easily make sure that the Stinger doesn’t either.

I just point this out to say that some are more excepting of flaws than others. It’s ok that you are lenient and unbothered by such occurrences. But those that expect a class competitive amount of NVH are ok too.

Ps. I don’t think anything is actually broken back there causing the sound. However, I do find it an example of (to use your words) poor execution that so many Stingers make that sound. Notice the list of cheap to expensive, sporty to mundane, cars listed above that are free from this sound...

 

[Ty Davis]

How do you know it's not broken? If people don't report these kinds of things, they never get addressed. Maybe it's not supposed to make that sound. Maybe Kia should take a listen and be the ones to report it as "normal operation."

I’ll be darned, that sounds like a good idea

And I expect Kia to go a step further... when they see that this sound is indeed normal for the Stinger, make sure it doesn’t occur in the next generation of Stinger. Maybe even implement a running/design change for Stingers about to be produced now. And if they really want to step up to the plate, produce a TSB with parts for already produced/effected Stingers.

 

[Ty Davis]

All my earlier comments on this forum are directed at reality. When "multiple" people complain about an issue, someone always chimes in eventually and makes the problem bigger; sometimes even asserting that "all" Stingers are affected. That's when I chime in and say "no, not all: mine doesn't." And off we go.

I will be a touch more cautious, here. All of the Stinger’s I have driven have had this thump to some degree. For the sake of accuracy, I will share that I have only driven 2018 and 2019 GT2 RWD models.

But I will also add that you mention in this thread, and several others, that you have indeed heard the thump in yours too.

So, no, I am not making the issue “bigger than what it is.”
The thump makes *itself* an issue. If it didn’t do it, we’d not be having this conversation.

Again, just want to let you know I’m not “bashing” Stinger.
But I do seek to find fixes to these type of things.[/QUOTE]

 

[MerlintheMad]

But to accuse me of “bashing” the Stinger because I am familiar with the issue is overstepping.

Did you see the wink and grin? I was joking about you being "another Calisting."

But I’m not gonna dismiss the countless people who have logged on here, other places on the net, and even magazine reviews, by telling them Stinger brakes can’t get better leave it alone.

Aha, I've never done that. In fact, quite the opposite, brakes are an important issue with me, and mine are "perfect" for how many miles I've logged. I just want to understand how some drivers are having issues with theirs, so I follow all the brake threads. The Stinger's brakes, while very, very good for a road car, can certainly be improved a great deal with aftermarket replacement rotors and pads.

Back to this thump, though...
You say leave it alone... No, Kia needs this feedback. User that hear the thump need to know that many Stingers do the same. Potential buyers need to know to listen for it during a test drive, so that they can make a more informed purchase decision. Camry, Accord, Altima, Malibu, 3-series, Xf, xe, Gs, Is, CT’s, etc... ride without this sound. It is not too high of expectation that the Kia also do so as well.

I agree. I was just saying that if the thump/thud in the rear is a normal sound, and not anymore obtrusive than when driving in a "spirited" manner over irregular roads, it probably isn't something to get worked up over. But, as you say, sensitivities vary.

Again, cars are my passion and I drive quite a few examples of lots of models... That affords me a clear picture of what is normal, or unique, or distinctly different from the rest of the herd. The Stinger is damned good. But I will assure you that Kia still has work to do. If you think I harshly criticize the Stinger, you should drop by the BMW forums and see how we lambasted BMW for things like Steering feel, rear suspension bounce on the 3 series, and turbo failures. The end result was people being more aware of issues and subsequently BMW making changes (sometimes, mid year) to correct or improve those issues. The forum members frequently put there heads together and pioneered fixes, even before BMW could or would.

This is good stuff. I'm glad you're here doing good work for us.

 

[Ty Davis]

Did you see the wink and grin? I was joking about you being "another Calisting."

I missed the wink... I do apologize for my misinterpretation.
I took you seriously and was massively irritated at the idea of you thinking I was trying to bash the vehicle that I love so much. Didn’t catch that you were just joking and poking a bit of fun...

We are good.
And likewise, I do appreciate your posts shedding light on the Stingers more positive attributes.

 

[MenShengFaCai]

Again, I can, and do respect, that your experience is different.
Our experience is a direct result of our knowledge, expectations, operating environment, and sensitivity.
I will admit I am a stickler for refinement. That being said, I take few issues with the Stinger under “demanding” conditions. When pushed hard, the vehicle comports itself very well.

The improvements I would like to see are evident in day to day regular driving.
If you can’t detect (or don’t have) an issue being talked about that is a good thing...
But to accuse me of “bashing” the Stinger because I am familiar with the issue is overstepping.
Don’t be so dismissive of others and their concerns. Mind you, I am never in a thread just talking to myself. Any issue I have spoken on has had multiple people with the same issue. Telling all of those people to “live with it” “it’s not broke, don’t fix it” fails to further the platform or that individual.

I haven’t experienced the brake rotor issues many people have complained about, on my own particular vehicle.
But I’m not gonna dismiss the countless people who have logged on here, other places on the net, and even magazine reviews, by telling them Stinger brakes can’t get better leave it alone.

Even though I haven’t had the issue, I can appreciate that others have, and want to provide a solution to them (and possibly myself if my rotors start causing vibration). The issue is common enough, that yes, I’d like to see Kia make the braking system more robust.

Back to this thump, though...
You say leave it alone... No, Kia needs this feedback. User that hear the thump need to know that many Stingers do the same. Potential buyers need to know to listen for it during a test drive, so that they can make a more informed purchase decision. Camry, Accord, Altima, Malibu, 3-series, Xf, xe, Gs, Is, CT’s, etc... ride without this sound. It is not too high of expectation that the Kia also do so as well.

Again, cars are my passion and I drive quite a few examples of lots of models... That affords me a clear picture of what is normal, or unique, or distinctly different from the rest of the herd. The Stinger is damned good. But I will assure you that Kia still has work to do. If you think I harshly criticize the Stinger, you should drop by the BMW forums and see how we lambasted BMW for things like Steering feel, rear suspension bounce on the 3 series, and turbo failures. The end result was people being more aware of issues and subsequently BMW making changes (sometimes, mid year) to correct or improve those issues. The forum members frequently put there heads together and pioneered fixes, even before BMW could or would.

This is not about expecting to much. Your expectations are what they are. And that is fine. But let’s not be dismissive to those who desire Stinger (as a whole) to be even better than it is. You’ve made it clear that you think the Stinger is just about perfect (for you) as is. Kia has some pretty lofty expectations of Stinger, themselves. They need this feedback to get there... The mentality of “it’s good enough, as is” wont help propel Stinger to the next level. Especially, not when there are a good handful of issues that need to be addressed to be on par with its premium and regular sedan competition.

My car rattles and creaks like my walmart bike left outside in midwest weather for a year after a car wreck. I wish I could have read all reviews before the purchase. They definitely can make a quite car, but 4 visits to the dealership since winter resulted in nothing and I had to escalate the issue while getting upset every moment I step into it, and I don't see it getting fixed in a couple of months. I should have waited or get a BMW 3 wagon/used 640igt instead.

 

[Ozstung]

My car rattles and creaks like my walmart bike left outside in midwest weather for a year after a car wreck. I wish I could have read all reviews before the purchase. They definitely can make a quite car, but 4 visits to the dealership since winter resulted in nothing and I had to escalate the issue while getting upset every moment I step into it, and I don't see it getting fixed in a couple of months. I should have waited or get a BMW 3 wagon/used 640igt instead.

Sad to hear. Can you demand Kia fix it? I can be imposing, can you push harder for a resolution? I know you shouldn't have to but as they say the squeeky wheel gets the oil. Or try appeal to there honest side.

 

[MerlintheMad]

My car rattles and creaks like my walmart bike left outside in midwest weather for a year after a car wreck. I wish I could have read all reviews before the purchase. They definitely can make a quite car, but 4 visits to the dealership since winter resulted in nothing and I had to escalate the issue while getting upset every moment I step into it, and I don't see it getting fixed in a couple of months. I should have waited or get a BMW 3 wagon/used 640igt instead.

Even allowing for hyperbole in your description, that sounds dreadful. And taking reps from Kia service for a ride should prove the point beyond argument. Make a list of noises, make sure they hear them (admit they do), and run down the list of noises and potential fixes that they will try. If it all sounds too drastic, and time consuming, then Lemon Law comes to the fore. Sorry for all the hassle and agony!

Edit: You know, thinking about an extreme case like yours, I imagine myself demanding a swap, straight across. Most Stingers are completely silent; no extraneous noises problems whatsoever: get in one you like from their stock, turn over your noise bucket, and let them deal with it.

(Never mind: I should have noticed how long you've had your car. And Kia reps already dismissing your claims. Not going to happen. )

 

[MenShengFaCai]

Even allowing for hyperbole in your description, that sounds dreadful. And taking reps from Kia service for a ride should prove the point beyond argument. Make a list of noises, make sure they hear them (admit they do), and run down the list of noises and potential fixes that they will try. If it all sounds too drastic, and time consuming, then Lemon Law comes to the fore. Sorry for all the hassle and agony!

Edit: You know, thinking about an extreme case like yours, I imagine myself demanding a swap, straight across. Most Stingers are completely silent; no extraneous noises problems whatsoever: get in one you like from their stock, turn over your noise bucket, and let them deal with it.

(Never mind: I should have noticed how long you've had your car. And Kia reps already dismissing your claims. Not going to happen. )

Actually the service department of Kia dealership at Urbana IL is very responsive and Jeremy the service rep is super nice. But, they cannot fix the wrongdoings from the factory. Kia air dropped in a corporate engineer who did no repair and claimed that it is “with in specification”, meaning that they no longer deem it as an issue and will not provide further help, which pissed me off big time. I already escalated it via Kia premium support but it takes another 7 business days to reply.

 

[Fboost]

Do you mind if I ask what some of your specific noises are?
I don't see how they could just wipe their hands clean and say all good.
It seems most people on this forum get there issues sorted out.
For what it's worth I bought a brand new premium wrx in 2017,it had Rattles and noises on the drive home the day I picked it up. My stinger seems nice and quiet so far but I've only done 2500kms.

 

[Revvdmedia]

Actually the service department of Kia dealership at Urbana IL is very responsive and Jeremy the service rep is super nice. But, they cannot fix the wrongdoings from the factory. Kia air dropped in a corporate engineer who did no repair and claimed that it is “with in specification”, meaning that they no longer deem it as an issue and will not provide further help, which pissed me off big time. I already escalated it via Kia premium support but it takes another 7 business days to reply.

Squeaky wheel to the extreme might be your best case. Honestly, keep calling and calling and calling. Either they will give up and succumb to your request in one way or another, or you will give up and dump it. Either way, if they're not going to be helpful, then be a pain in their butt.

 

[MenShengFaCai]

Do you mind if I ask what some of your specific noises are?
I don't see how they could just wipe their hands clean and say all good.
It seems most people on this forum get there issues sorted out.
For what it's worth I bought a brand new premium wrx in 2017,it had Rattles and noises on the drive home the day I picked it up. My stinger seems nice and quiet so far but I've only done 2500kms.

I bought my car used at 3000 miles, and the rattle started around 6000 miles when winter came, then became unbearable. Sorry for the stupid imperial unit system even tho you real imperials have already abandoned it lol

 

[MerlintheMad]

the rattle

That doesn't fit your original, "rattles and creaks like my walmart bike left outside in midwest weather for a year after a car wreck." And it doesn't identify where the noise(s) come from. If you want help you need to be more specific. If you want sympathy, same thing, imho. Just carping about "noise(s)" and using creative literary devices won't get you much for all your time and effort here. What kind of rattle is it?

 

[MenShengFaCai]

That doesn't fit your original, "rattles and creaks like my walmart bike left outside in midwest weather for a year after a car wreck." And it doesn't identify where the noise(s) come from. If you want help you need to be more specific. If you want sympathy, same thing, imho. Just carping about "noise(s)" and using creative literary devices won't get you much for all your time and effort here. What kind of rattle is it?

Did not quite understand how it doesn’t fit, but the noise is very typical (in other threads) sunroof creak + a tickling sound near head area of B pillar when going over small bumps or turning into a slopes driveway. Now the rear started to develop a sound similar to this post, not really a tailgate rattle but more like spare tire not fastened, over bumps. (Checked spare it is tight). So in timeline, the rattles developed as B pillar tick - sunroof creak - rear end thud during 6000-11000 miles. Now I have an orchestra of 3 rattles.

It is so typical that I find it same as other people’s post and long term reviews from midea like motor-trend. Dealer checked my VIN and my car should be the one produced after they realized and fixed the tailgate+sunroof issue.

 

[Revvdmedia]

Did not quite understand how it doesn’t fit, but the noise is very typical (in other threads) sunroof creak + a tickling sound near head area of B pillar when going over small bumps or turning into a slopes driveway. Now the rear started to develop a sound similar to this post, not really a tailgate rattle but more like spare tire not fastened, over bumps. (Checked spare it is tight). So in timeline, the rattles developed as B pillar tick - sunroof creak - rear end thud during 6000-11000 miles. Now I have an orchestra of 3 rattles.

It is so typical that I find it same as other people’s post and long term reviews from midea like motor-trend. Dealer checked my VIN and my car should be the one produced after they realized and fixed the tailgate+sunroof issue.

I think the sunroof "fix" is relatively new. I don't know who else has had the sunroof frame replaced before westcoastGT but I believe he said his went to Kia's engineers, presumably for root cause analysis. I would hope the issue has been identified and rectified on new builds, but that was only last December, so it's likely some even built up to today might still be affected due to existing stock of compromised sunroofs. The B pillar is typical and I don't think anyone has found a "cure-all" fix, it seems different people have different luck based on different fixes, so the "typical" tick might be different root causes in various cars. I have the tick but it's not really unbearable, and I hope mine goes away when my sunroof frame will inevitably be replaced, much like westcoastGT's tick went away with his sunroof frame replacement.

As for this thud in the rear, maybe what I hear in mine is different than what others are hearing and my car is not affected. The "thud" in mine is more along the lines of a deep and somewhat hollow boom from the chassis in the rear over harder bumps, more than just the normal tire "thrum" you hear over bumps from the front. I attribute this to various factors of the car's design and not a defect but rather just something with room for improvement, on mine at least. I've had a metal "clack" before, but that was only when the threaded rubber stoppers were threaded out too far, likely pushing contact points in the hatch apart, making space between them and parts would hit over hard bumps. Threading the bumpers in fixes this on mine.

 

[G-664564]

I have this exact same problem with my stinger premium as well. Tried to investigate but couldn't find the real reason. Dealership says they can't hear it. I also hear static noise from speakers when connecting my phone via bluetooth. Its very frustrating! We should raise this issue somehow! :/

 

[Fl stingergt]

It’s hatch moving side to side add a thicker washer under black stopper on side rails . It will solve problem. There was to problems with hatch . Up and down rattling and side to side thud noise. The washers will tighten it up so it doesn’t move. Kia trued to fix 3 times. I just added thicker washer from Home Depot and been good for over a year.