We have a 1999 XK8, with less than 40k miles, that has been wonderful. Recently, it has developed a rattle (periodic vibration) in front of the steering wheel in the dash area. If we hold down the dash with some force, the rattle goes away. BTW, we replaced the upper shock mounts a year ago....I know that these can cause a rattle also if they go bad. Any ideas on a repair?

 

Check the heater vents at the back of the dash. Wedge some thin cardboard between these and the leather and go for a drive. Does that eliminate the rattles?

Also, another source of rattles is the rearview mirror plastic cover, the part that rests on the windshield.

 

It may be the main securing dash bolts gone loose - quite common. Watch the first half of this short video.

 

I agree with giandanielxk8. My 2003 XKR has a periodic rattle that emanates from the top of the dash and I have found it was the heater vents. I just push them down and it stops the rattle for a few weeks. Their idea of putting some cardboard or something to wedge between the vent and the dash would probably work really well.

 

If it is a loud heavier tattle, check the engine bay support rods bolts which transverse the fender the cowl, especially the two under the cowl

 

Are those a convertible only thing?