Crackling noise in dash when temperature is cold

[pbancheri]

I have a 2005 Malibu that I purchased in late July - everything was fine until the cold weather came, then there is a crackling noise in my dash. Even though I have a waranty - my Dealer will not change the dash because GM told them not too. Has anyone else had this problem -pete

[brsexton]

My 2003 Alero has the same noise. I think it is wonderful GM quality. It stops once the interior heats up.

[pbancheri]

Originally Posted by brsexton

My 2003 Alero has the same noise. I think it is wonderful GM quality. It stops once the interior heats up.

Same here - What did GM tell you it was caused by? Thanks for your message - I started to think I was the only one out there - pete

[brsexton]

GM said it was caused by the material in the dash contracting in the cold. It caused the pieces of the dash to rub together. Nothing was ever done besides me covering the dash in Armoral. I will tell you that as the car ages (3 years old now) that the noises gets better. I don't hear it that much anymore when cold. If I were you I would not want GM to replace the dash. The reason is because I bet the 2nd dash would do the samething, and I bet they would NEVER get it back like it should be. Just my 2 cents.

[hillboy]

Had 2 SAAB 9000, a relative of the Malibu maxx I have now and the "cold cracking noise" was a standard in both.When I first heard it in the Maxx I recognized it. Never caused a problem. Things expand and contract.