Simulating Vehicle Squeak and Rattle Using Abaqus FEA

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Simulating Vehicle Squeak and Rattle Using Abaqus FEA

Case study showing how Applus IDIADA uses Abaqus Unified FEA to detect squeak and rattle sources in vehicle interiors during early design.

Published

June 4, 2026

Read time

3 min read

Source

Applus IDIADA applies SIMULIA Abaqus to model nonlinear contact behavior between vehicle components that produce squeaks and rattles. The approach extends existing modal N&V analyses by adding connector elements as virtual sensors to capture three-axis contact events. Results help automotive OEMs identify problematic HVAC duct and cockpit interfaces before physical prototypes are built.

Key takeaways

S&R events require nonlinear contact modeling beyond standard modal analysis

Abaqus connector elements serve as virtual sensors to detect part interaction

HVAC duct connections are primary contributors to dashboard rattles

Simulation detects more potential rattles than physical testing

Early design-stage S&R analysis reduces later warranty and rework costs

Market overview

SCR methodology note

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Important consideration

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