Deck Lid - Water Leaks When Opened
File In Section: 08 - Body and AccessoriesBulletin No.: 01-08-57-005
Date: November, 2001
TECHNICAL
Subject:
Trunk Area Waterleaks
Models:
2000-02 Pontiac Bonneville
Condition
Some customers may comment that water leaks from the deck lid when it is opened.
Cause # 1
The CHMSL lamp gasket may not be seated correctly. Refer to the illustration above.
Correction
Important:
If any part of the CHMSL lamp gasket is cut, torn, or folded over, the gasket may become unseated and a water leak may occur. Water will run down the edge of the decklid and leak into the decklid, past an unseated CHMSL lamp gasket.
1. Remove the CHMSL lamp assembly.
2. Inspect the gasket for damage. If the gasket is damaged, replace the lamp assembly.
3. If the gasket is not damaged, run a small bead of silicone sealer around the perimeter. Refer to the illustration above.
4. Reinstall the CHMSL lamp assembly and tighten the fasteners securely.
Cause # 2
The decklid rear applique may not be completely seated.
Refer to the illustration above.
Correction
Important:
If the decklid applique is not properly seated, up to 3.8 L (1 gal) of water can run down and collect in the decklid. When the decklid is opened, the water will pour cut of the five drain holes. Three of the holes will drain water onto the rear glass and the other two holes will drain the water into the trunk.
1. Use sufficient force to press the applique into the decklid completely.
2. Securely tighten the applique retaining nuts from inside the decklid and re-test.
3. If the leak persists, remove the nut(s) and apply a thumb grade sealer to the applique retaining studs. Reinstall the nuts securely.
Cause # 3
The rear spoiler retaining nut(s) may be loose or missing. Refer to the illustration above.
Correction
Important:
If any of the six rear spoiler retaining nuts are loose or missing, a potential water leak condition may exist. If the water leaks through a loose spoiler fastener, water will fill the decklid overhang and enter the trunk when the decklid is opened.
1. Tighten the six retaining nuts securely and re-test.
2. If the leak persists, remove the nut(s) and apply thumb grade sealer. Reinstall the nuts securely.
Cause # 4
The sheet metal may leak water through welds behind the rear body applique.
Correction
1. Remove the rear applique.
2. Clean the sheet metal with one of the cleaners listed below.
3. Apply seam sealer to the sheet metal weld area. Refer to the illustration above.
4. Reinstall the applique securely.
Parts Information
^ 3M(R) General Purpose Adhesive Cleaner, P/N 08984
^ Dominion Sure Seal, Sure Solve Stock BSS
^ Kent Acrosol(TM)
^ 3M(R) Strip-Caulk-Black
^ 3M(R) Clear Auto Sealer, P/N 08551
^ Silicone Rubber Sealant (Black), P/N 12345739 (in Canada, use P/N 10953541)
Disclaimer