annoying rattles from the back

[Johnbee]

why do i have annoying rattles from the rear of my car when driving alone but no rattles when the boot is loaded. i have a 2008 1.4 micra with automatic gearbox.

 

[Mach1]

Check your rear dampers first then check the rear springs by jacking up the car and checking for movement in the rear axle.

 

[Mika The Finn]

I had same symptom on my Micra vehicle, aluminum heat shield top of rear muffler had come loose.

 

[Johnbee]

Check your rear dampers first then check the rear springs by jacking up the car and checking for movement in the rear axle.

thanks Mach1, these rattles have been there since i bought the car in 2018. i note your thoughts but wouldn’t these reasons be detected during the annual MOT’s? regards, Johnbee

 

[Johnbee]

thanks Mach1, these rattles have been there since i bought the car in 2018. i note your thoughts but wouldn’t these reasons be detected during the annual MOT’s? regards, Johnbee

 

[Mach1]

some testers are more vigourous than others, as you say it would need a rolling road on the back to detect a no load rattle. mine passed with rear bearings shot and leaking grease onto shoes so MOT test is not infallible!