Up till now, my ML430 has been remarkably rattle free. Within the last week I've noticed a persistent rattle coming from the rear hatch area. I tightened down the tire jack/lug nut assembly in the right storage bin and thoroughly checked that area for something loose..couldn't find anything. The CD changer + bracket was removed a few months ago. On the other side, that storage area was secure as well with only the first aid kit in that compartment . BTW, what IS that removeable plastic piece behind the first aid kit? Can't figure that one out.

This evening I removed the entire rear hatch cover to check all those assemblies..everything seems secure and tight. Anybody else had a similar rattle in this area ?