Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH): Notes

Noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) is becoming more important as vehicles become more sophisticated and passenger comfort levels increase. This article is designed to aid in the diagnosis and testing and repair of NVH concerns.

• Noise is defined as sounds not associated with the operation of passenger compartment equipment that interface with customer satisfaction.
• Vibration is defined as impulses felt by the customer that are not caused by road surface changes.
• Harshness is a ride quality issue where the customer feels that the vehicle response to the road surface is sharply transmitted to the customer.