The Road Test

A road test is required to determine if the windnoise condition is external, internal, or a combination of the two.

NOTE:
Often there is one primary leak source and one or more secondary leaks that contribute to the noise condition. Repairing only one of these sources may not completely repair the total condition, but only reduce it.

The items should be used by the technician during the test drive to aid in locating the leak area:



1. Mechanic's stethoscope or vacuum hose

2. Masking tape (2 inches in width)

3. Strip caulk

4. China marking pencil

The vehicle should be driven at the speed in which the noise was noticed by the customer or until it is heard.

CAUTION:
SAFE LEGAL SPEEDS SHOULD NEVER BE EXCEEDED.

If the noise can be heard with the door glass lowered and the vehicle driven, it is most likely external windnoise.

Locating an external windnoise is accomplished by taping off various moldings and gaps until the noise is eliminated pinpointing the exact cause of the noise.

If the noise is more distinct with the windows in a full-up position while the car is driven, it is most likely internal windnoise caused by an open body seam or poor glass/door weatherstrip sealing surface.

Visual Inspection

Visually check for misaligned components, loose fasteners, torn weatherstrips, broken weld joints and/or sealer and/or adhesive skips.

Tracing Powder or Chalk Test

Clean the weatherstrips and contact surfaces with cleaning solvent. Apply powder or chalk in an unbroken line around the perimeter of the trunk lid, door, door glass or hood. Surrounding areas must be free of chalk or powder. Close panel completely. Do not slam closed. The line applied on the weatherstrip will be marred where contact is good. A corresponding imprint will be on the mating surfaces. Gaps or irregularities in the powder or chalk line indicate a poor seal.

Air Pressure Test

Turn on the vehicle's ventilation fan. Close all openings, doors windows, etc. An abnormal amount of high-pressure will build up in the vehicle and will escape through voids or poor seals. With a stethoscope or length of heater (vacuum) hose, listen for escaping air along the door and window seals. A smoke tester or dusting powder can be used in the same manner. The exact location can be seen as the smoke or powder travels through the void or bad seal.

The actual repair procedure depends on the type of seal being repaired. Leaks may require panel or glass alignment, sealer application or weatherstrip alignment or replacement.