Interior Noise - C5 Coupe
 

On all but a few road surfaces the road noise in my '03 Anniversary Coupe is really annoying. Conversation is marginal and I'm always saying "what's that . . . ?" Annoys the spouse a lot.

Any successful noise abatement experience out there?

It is not a new problem. Nearly 20 years of Corvette ownership ('87 and '96 Collector's Edition) makes this no surprise and the C5 is quieter than either of the C4's.

I know of two factors that contribute to my annoyance: the tires are probably starting to become "hard" as they approach their fourth year and age (my age) is resulting in less tolerance to the rumble and roar. I saw an article somewhere that described the addition of sound absorbent material to doors and floors. Also, I note that other, quieter, coupes (i.e. the Jaguar XK) have a trunk vs the open cargo area in the back of the Corvette. Anyone using a more robust replacement for the Corvette privacy curtain that hangs under the rear window?

All ideas and especially successful noise reduction suggestions gratefully accepted . . . I really like the Corvette . . . it is the best road car I've ever owned. But the rumble and roar has me eyeing the Jaguar with lust.

John Blair

RE: Interior Noise - C5 Coupe
 

You could probably replace the tires with tires that are as quiet as possible. The folks at tire Rack might know which brang and model are good in that regard.

RE: Interior Noise - C5 Coupe
 

Lee, thanks . . . the tire search is on the horizon. I went through a similar seach several years ago before I replaced the '96. At that time the "quiet" tires weren't run-flat so the choice essentially came to the OE Goodyears or the OE Goodyears. Travelling with no protection from tire damage didn't seem to be an option. I suspect there may be more choices today.

John Blair

RE: Interior Noise - C5 Coupe
 

John
I would suspect the tires, and take Lee's advice and get yourself a good set. Do some research here, and see which ones offer the least amount of road noise.
You can buy the sound absorbing material, it helps not only with the sound but with the heat inside also. I have used this on several of my cars, espcially my 52 chevy, and it made a world of difference in the road noise and the heat inside.
It would be quite a job however to put this stuff in, so give the tires a try first.
Good Luck

RE: Interior Noise - C5 Coupe
 

http://www.corvetteactioncenter.com/...und+insulation