Since it’s been pushing 100+ degrees lately, I decided it was the perfect time to retreat indoors for some work. I pulled a few more interior panels and the left rear door panel off the 4Runner and brought them inside to soak up some AC. The goal: more sound deadening.

I laid down some deadening mat and topped it off with closed-cell foam, making sure to cover all the usual trouble spots. Honestly, it’s kind of satisfying work — cut, stick, press, repeat — especially when you’re not melting in the driveway.

After getting everything buttoned back up, I took it for a test drive, and that annoying rattle that’s been haunting me? Just about gone. It’s not completely silent (it is still a 26-year-old truck), but the improvement is night and day. Progress, one panel at a time.