I have a dealer that is struggling to find the source of the popping sound that only seems to happen with extreme cold conditions. they have had several this winter with how cold it has them and we have checked everything that we can think of. any ideas? it is the newer style equinox...

This is the only Technical Service Bulletin on any type of noise related issues for this vehicle.

Bulletin No.: 99-04-20-002H

Date: April 11, 2013

Subject: Information on Driveline Clunk Noise

Models:
2014 and Prior GM Passenger Cars and Light Duty Trucks

Supercede:
This bulletin is being revised to add the 2013-2014 model years. Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 99-04-20-002G (Section 04 - Driveline/Axle).

Important
The condition described in this bulletin should not be confused with the following previous bulletins:

- Clunk, Bump or Squawk when Vehicle Comes to Complete Stop or Accelerating from Complete Stop (Replace Rear Drive Shaft Nickel-Plated Slip Yoke) (Corporate Bulletin Number 01-04-17-004B or later)

- Clunk Noise at Stop or From Launch (Clean/Lubricate Rear Propshaft Slip Yoke Splines) (Corporate Bulletin Number 09-04-21-003D or later)


If it has gravity stops at the top of the windshield this could be the problem as Toyota has had major issues with this. The gravity stop glued to the windshield rubs the pinchweld and makes a squeaking noise. Also when its cold moulding tend to get very rigid and rub the body causing squeaking noise also.

Also read this, very informative from Bob as usual talking about this issue directly.

http://beranek.agrrmag.com/2014/02/here-are-some-topics-covered-at-the-agsc-meetings-in-florida/

It gets below zero often where we are. Way below. And yes, windshields DO make a loud popping sound, some more than others. It'll wake you up, that's for sure. It happens on vehicles with the original glass and ones we've replaced. Of course with the latter you have to deal with the "you touched it last" syndrome.

I have come across this problem quite often this winter. What I have been doing is removing the glass and re-installing it with a slightly taller bead of urethane. I have not received any calls after doing this so from what I can tell it's working. It is only happening on the GMC models.

We've noticed the problem on vehicles with the original windshield more than windshields that have been replaced. The obvious solution is to wait for warmer weather or move south.