WATER LEAK DETECTION
To detect a water leak point-of-entry, do a water test and watch for water tracks or droplets forming on the inside of
the vehicle. If necessary, remove interior trim covers or panels to gain visual access to the leak area. If the hose
cannot be positioned without being held, have someone help do the water test.
Some water leaks must be tested for a considerable length of time to become apparent. When a leak appears, find
the highest point of the water track or drop. The highest point usually will show the point of entry. After leak point
has been found, repair the leak and water test to verify that the leak has stopped.
Locating the entry point of water that is leaking into a cavity between panels can be difficult. The trapped water may
splash or run from the cavity, often at a distance from the entry point. Most water leaks of this type become appar-
ent after accelerating, stopping, turning, or when on an incline.
MIRROR INSPECTION METHOD
When a leak point area is visually obstructed, use a suitable mirror to gain visual access. A mirror can also be used
to deflect light to a limited-access area to assist in locating a leak point.
BRIGHT LIGHT LEAK TEST METHOD
Some water leaks in the luggage compartment can be detected without water testing. Position the vehicle in a
brightly lit area. From inside the darkened luggage compartment inspect around seals and body seams. If neces-
sary, have a helper direct a shop light over the suspected leak areas around the luggage compartment. If light is
visible through a normally sealed location, water could enter through the opening.
PRESSURIZED LEAK TEST METHOD
When a water leak into the passenger compartment cannot be detected by water testing, pressurize the passenger
compartment and soap test exterior of the vehicle. To pressurize the passenger compartment, close all doors and
windows, start engine, and set heater control to high blower in HEAT position. If engine can not be started, connect
a charger to the battery to ensure adequate voltage to the blower. With interior pressurized, apply dish detergent
solution to suspected leak area on the exterior of the vehicle. Apply detergent solution with spray device or soft
bristle brush. If soap bubbles occur at a body seam, joint, seal or gasket, the leak entry point could be at that
location.
WIND NOISE
Wind noise is the result of most air leaks. Air leaks can be caused by poor sealing, improper body component
alignment, body seam porosity, or missing plugs in the engine compartment or door hinge pillar areas. All body
sealing points should be air tight in normal driving conditions. Moving sealing surfaces will not always seal airtight
under all conditions. At times, side glass or door seals will allow wind noise to be noticed in the passenger com-
partment during high cross winds. Over-compensating on door or glass adjustments to stop wind noise that occurs
under severe conditions can cause premature seal wear and excessive closing or latching effort. After a repair pro-
cedure has been performed, test vehicle to verify noise has stopped before returning vehicle to use.
Wind noise can also be caused by improperly fitted exterior moldings or body ornamentation. Loose moldings can
flutter, creating a buzzing or chattering noise. An open cavity or protruding edge can create a whistling or howling
noise. Inspect the exterior of the vehicle to verify that these conditions do not exist.
VISUAL INSPECTION BEFORE TESTS
Verify that floor and body plugs are in place and body components are aligned and sealed. If component alignment
or sealing is necessary, refer to the appropriate section of this group for proper procedures.
ROAD TESTING WIND NOISE
1. Drive the vehicle to verify the general location of the wind noise.
2. Apply a 50 mm (2 in.) piece of masking tape in 150 mm (6 in.) lengths along the weatherstrips, weld seams or
moldings. After each length is applied, drive the vehicle. If noise goes away after the piece of tape is applied,
remove the tape, locate, and repair the concern.
POSSIBLE CAUSE OF WIND NOISE
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Moldings standing away from the body surface can catch the wind and whistle.
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Gaps in sealed areas behind overhanging body flanges can cause wind-rushing sounds.
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BODY - SERVICE INFORMATION
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