Was driving my R53 Cooper S today, and was noticing a very annoying creaking sound from the dash, louder than the usual anyway :D

Had a look and noticed a large gap/void between the dash and the bottom of the A-Pillar on the driver side, never noticed it before, and it seems to be the cause of the new creaking. The dash seems more flexible when pressing down on it due to the gap.

How would this gap appear out of nowhere? Would it be due to heating and cooling causing expansion and contraction to the dash?

I've included a photo of the driver side, where the gap is, and the passenger side where there is no gap!

http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b88/tomoslloyd/IMAG0338.jpg

http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b88/tomoslloyd/IMAG0337.jpg

help!!!!

This kind of thing can easily rectified.
I purchased a few rolls of self adhesive neoprene of various
thickness. I also purchased some self adhesive felt. (both from ebay)
When i get vibrating from the plastic trim, i locate where the vibration
is coming from and pack/cover the offending bits of plastic with my
meoprene and/or felt.
Works fantastic!
Hope this helps. :)