Retailer Installed Accessory (RIA) Luggage Carrier Exhibits a Slow Speed Flutter and/or High Speed Whistle Noise (Replace Luggage Carrier Slats)

Some customers may comment on a low speed (40-56 km/h [25-35 MPH]) flutter noise and/or a high speed (89-113 km/h [55-70 MPH]) whistle noise. This condition may be more noticeable when the front cross bar is installed in the front luggage carrier rail assemblies' second fastener position (from the front of the vehicle).

The luggage carrier rubber slat may not fit tightly into the cross bar groove. This may allow airflow to lift the slat slightly, creating either the flutter or whistle noise.

Replace the luggage carrier slats with P/N 22731380, which fits tighter into the cross bar channel. Refer to the service procedure in this bulletin.

1. Carefully lift up on one end of a luggage carrier slat with a small flat bladed screwdriver to disengage the slat retaining lips from the cross bar.
2. Starting with the removed end of the slat, pull upward and away until it is completely removed from the cross bar.

Important: Using a silicone-based spray is necessary to aid in the installation of the new luggage carrier slats. Apply a liberal coating to the underside of the slat and into the channel sides of the cross bar prior to performing Step 3.

3. Starting at one end of the cross bar, begin installing the slat retaining lips under the channel sides of the cross bar by applying downward pressure until both lips are under the channel sides, and the slat sits flush with the top of the cross bar. Using either the handle or shaft of the luggage carrier fastener tool as a roller while applying downward pressure will help in getting the slat retaining lips to seat in the cross bar channel.

Important: When working on a vehicle with one of the additional carrier packages available, it may be necessary to cut the slat into several different length pieces to fit the carrier package installed on the vehicle. Cut the slat to the length needed to fit tightly between each attachment and end cap, leaving no exposed channel area in the cross bar. When necessary to cut the slats, follow the same installation procedure in Step 3.

4. Once the slat is installed completely, trim the excess off with a razor blade flush with the end cap of the cross bar. Pushing slightly inward on the slat while trimming the excess off will ensure a tight fit.
5. Wipe off any excess silicone spray that may remain on the cross bar and/or may have dripped onto the roof panel.
6. Repeat steps 1 through 5 on the other cross bar.

Important: To help minimize the normal wind rush noise that is generated by a roof rack, the front cross bar should only be installed into the third attachment point from the front of the vehicle. The rear cross bar can be installed in either the fourth, fifth or sixth attachment point from the front of the vehicle.

To receive credit for this repair during the warranty coverage period, submit a claim through the Saturn Dealer System for B2942 (Luggage Rack Components, Bracket and/or Bar (Rail) - Replace) using Case Type PW.