Guest Post: SLK230 fixing creaking/squeaking rubber noises
Editors Note: This is part five in a series by Nick Gruzevskis about owning a Modern Mercedes convertible – in this case his R170 SLK230. The previous entries can be found here.
After two years of ownership, I now feel I’ve just about sorted my SLK230. Many will know the challenges of sorting a car. Yes, the major issues are sorted quickly, but you often then procrastinate on the smaller issues, but are reminded every time of them when driving the car.
One of these smaller issues was the constant creaking/squeaking of rubber, mainly around the roof. Given my recent achievements, of removing and refurbishing interior, replacing roof lining and fitting new wind deflector. I felt like I was on a roll, so this was the time to act.
A quick search online, revealed many R170/R171 owners had the problem and a bottle of Gummi Pfledge Stift should fix the problem.
I ordered the product via Amazon, costing $21.90. The instructions were very simple:
- Prepare the surface: Make sure the surface is clean and dry before applying Gummi Pflege.
- Shake the bottle well before use.
- Press the foam applicator against the surface and squeeze the bottle until the product starts to flow. Gently glide the applicator along the surface.
- Allow the product to soak in and dry. Do not wipe it off.
- Repeat: If you’re conditioning your weather seals for the first time, you can apply the product twice to ensure maximum absorption. After that, you can apply it every few months.
I have only applied it once and was initially somewhat disappointed with the results driving the car after the first application, but what I didn’t realise was that a month after application, all the roof creaking and squeaking noises had disappeared.
The following link is a PDF document, detailing all the rubber strips to apply product.
Over the summer I will perform another application.
Author: Nick Gruzevskis is a contributor to classicjalopy.com, and the custodian of a great collection of classic and modern cars. Links to some his other articles can be found here
