Diagnosis
The rattle is caused by mechanical play between the plastic fender and its metal mounting bracket. Over time, the constant vibration from commuting loosens the mounting screws, or the plastic eyelets wear down, creating a gap. This allows the fender to oscillate and strike the frame or tire when you hit uneven pavement.
How to Fix It
To eliminate the noise and stabilize the fender, follow these steps:
- Flip the scooter over or use a stand to gain clear access to the rear wheel assembly.
- Locate the two primary screws securing the fender to the metal support bracket underneath the deck.
- Tighten these screws using a precision screwdriver. Apply firm pressure, but stop once they are snug; over-tightening will strip the plastic threads or crack the mounting tabs.
- If the screws are tight but the rattle persists, remove the screws and insert a small rubber washer or a piece of thin neoprene tubing between the fender and the bracket. This creates a dampening layer that absorbs vibrations.
- Reinstall the screws and test for movement by shaking the fender manually.
If That Didn't Work
Inspect the plastic mounting holes for "ovaling" or hairline cracks. If the plastic has stretched or cracked, the screws will never stay tight. In this case, you can either:
- Use a wider "fender washer" to distribute the clamping force over a larger area of the plastic.
- Replace the rear fender assembly entirely with a G4-specific replacement part.
Heads Up
A rattling fender is more than a noise nuisance. If the mounting hardware fails completely, the fender can shift forward and lock against the rear tire. This can cause the rear wheel to seize instantly, potentially throwing the rider from the scooter.