Please don't blow me up with the "search" flames......this is difficult to search for, since it is difficult to describe. I have attempted searching, but perhaps without using the correct terminology, I am not finding anything that relates to this issue.

When driving with the top up, I hear a vibration/rattle through the rear tray area at around 5000 rpms while accelerating. It doesn't sound catastrophic, but it does make me curious as to what it might be, and whether it could develop into a problem.

I do not hear it with the top down.....perhaps due to sound insulation created by the folded top and/or ambient "top-down" noise.

I highly doubt it is the Service Bulletin 02-063 CV joint issue, as it is a sound, not a vibration I feel in the seat or anything.

Are there any common things to check for that could be loose and/or failing that would cause this noise?

 

Check the spare tie down bolt in the trunk. I had a metal on metal vibration noise from the rear behind the passenger seat, that's all it was.