Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Overview

Body System

Inspection and Verification

Dust and Water Leaks

Most dust and water leaks occur due to missing or mis-installed body sealer or components. The source of the leak is detected by:

- pressurizing the vehicle and testing with soapy water.
- Locate and tape off the body vents.

- Turn the blower motor on the high position.

- Turn the air recirculation to the off mode.

- Close the windows and doors.

- Open the hood and spray soapy water along body seams and grommets. Make sure to test the areas around the A-pillar at the fender and the hood hinge area.

- Check for bubbles.


- inspecting for a dust pattern or water path near and above the area in question.

- removing any trim or carpet in the general area of the leak.

- road testing or water-hose testing the vehicle.

- placing a bright light under the vehicle, removing any necessary trim or carpet and inspecting the interior of the body at joints and weld lines.

Wind Noise

Most wind noise leaks occur at the corners of the windows or in the doors. Wind noise is detected by driving the vehicle at highway speeds or at speeds as specified by the customer. The vehicle should be driven in 4 different directions, with all the windows CLOSED, the radio OFF and the A/C blower motor OFF.

Squeak and Rattle

Squeak and rattle noises are generally caused by loose parts, contact or relative movement between 2 surfaces or loose wires and connectors. The source of the noise can be detected by stopping movement of the suspect part by hand or by using dampening or low friction materials.