2024 BMW 2/3/4 Series Washer Fluid Reservoir Rattle

Symptoms

Owners may experience "Rattling noises heard from vicinity of glove box" while driving, particularly on rough roads. This noise is an audible indicator of the underlying issue.

OEM Fault Labels and Defect Codes

BMW has identified this condition with the following defect code and description:

• Defect Code: 6166013700
• Description: "Washer fluid reservoir, windscreen washer system Loose"

Cause of the BMW Washer Fluid Reservoir Rattle

The root cause of the rattling noise is identified as excessive lateral play in the windshield washer reservoir's upper plastic locating guide tab. This movement allows the reservoir to vibrate and create noise, which can transmit into the glove compartment area.

Repair Procedure Summary

BMW Service Information Bulletin SIB 61 06 15 outlines a procedure to correct the BMW washer fluid reservoir rattle. This bulletin, which supersedes SI B61 06 15 dated November 2021, involves applying a self-adhesive felt tape to stabilize the washer fluid reservoir.

The repair process generally includes these steps:

1. Preliminary Task: Remove the front right wheel arch cover to gain access to the washer fluid reservoir.
2. Reservoir Removal: The washer fluid reservoir is removed according to Repair Instruction 61 71 061. This involves removing a securing screw (tightening torque = 8 Nm), pulling the reservoir out of its guides, and disconnecting all plug connections and the filler hose.
3. Fluid Management: Technicians are instructed to "Capture any escaping washer fluid, if necessary" during the removal process.
4. Surface Preparation: The upper guide tab of the reservoir is thoroughly cleaned.
5. Felt Tape Application: A piece of self-adhesive felt tape, measuring 80 x 60 x 1 mm, is applied to the cleaned upper guide tab. This felt tape fills the gap between the plastic reservoir guide and the metal securing bracket, eliminating the lateral play.
6. Reinstallation: All removed parts are reinstalled in the reverse order of their removal.

Required Parts

The specific part required for this repair is:

• Part Number: 51 45 2 353 024
• Description: Felt strip (80 x 60 x 1 mm)

Warranty Information

This repair for the BMW washer fluid reservoir rattle is covered under the terms of the BMW New Vehicle Limited Warranty for Passenger Cars and Light Trucks. Labor operations associated with this repair include 61 71 061 (Main work for reservoir replacement), 61 71 561 (Plus Work for reservoir replacement), and 61 99 000 (Work time for preparing and applying the felt strip).

Owner Action

If your 2024 BMW 2, 3, or 4 Series is exhibiting rattling noises from the glove box area, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with an authorized BMW dealership. The dealership will diagnose the issue and perform the necessary repair as outlined in Service Information Bulletin SIB 61 06 15.

Important Warnings

Technicians are advised to "Capture any escaping washer fluid, if necessary" during the repair process to prevent spills.

NHTSA ID: 11012091