Sunroof rattle

[Boswell]

I have just bought a XJ Portfolio 2015 X351 model and it came with a sunroof - no option. I don't like or use them and never have.
However I noted we had a rattle which occurred when on bumpy roads after leaving my home. Later in the day the noises were muted.
As driver I felt these came from behind me and to the left. So suspected passenger seat belt mechanism, rear door or sunroof/shades.
Using some detective work, I suspected as the roof got hotter during the day and the noise more subdued, it was more likely the sunroof at issue.
Checking various forums and web sites relating to this model and found others with the same complaint. No real cure seems to have been found other than the cryptic note that "Jaguar changed the roof rail design in the 2016 model!
Anyway I noted the noise did not appear when the sunroof was at the tilt position. Nor at the fully open position, only appearing when the roof was closed.
I surmised the lifting tilt mechanism was the culprit. I did find another user had tried Vasoline and said he cured it (though I was surprised no-one commented on his "cure"). So I thought to give it a try and bought some "Comma" Multipurpose Lithium high temperature grease from Halfords. I wanted a good temperature range to hopefully prevent the grease from losing it's viscous properties.
Opened the roof to tilt position and liberally greased the tilt mechanism that I could see, top and bottom on the passenger side, then shut the roof (I thought if there was some improvement I'd add some more and to both sides).
Note this grease is thick and coating the surfaces causes what we used to call "sticktion" in the Forces. It simply means that plastic or metal surfaces in rails or grooves, that hinge and can move in their static positions (they have by necessity some movement) will be prevented from vibrating and are held in this grease.
I'm pleased to say result is I have NO noises at all from the sunroof now even in the cold (2ºC yesterday) and as I don't intend to use the sunroof - as far as I'm concerned the noise/rattle issue is cured.
So happily a low cost fix, a few dobs of grease and with no technical or Dealer involvement. Job done and delighted now to drive a very quiet car at last.
Hope this helps others who may have the same issue.
Apologies if this is Posted in the wrong place - I hope you can forgive a Newbie!

[J44EAG]

Nigel Thorley had similar issues with his X351.

Regret I don`t know how it was solved but it might be worth contacting him.

Mike K

[Boswell]

Mike K
Can't see him on Members list, though he may well see this Post if he still has issues, which may help.

[J44EAG]

Nigel is the Editor of our magazine. His contact details are in the pages at the front of the magazine.

Mike K

[Boswell]

Mike K,
Thanks for that - I'll contact and see if he's resolved issue.

Boswell