Waterleak Diagnosis

Waterleak Diagnosis

The repair of waterleaks in the body requires proper testing and diagnosis. Repair waterleaks by adjusting the misaligned parts and using the proper repair materials. First, determine what conditions cause the leak. For example, the leak may occur only when the vehicle is parked on an incline, or water may appear only in the spare tire compartment. Second, test the area for the source of the leak using the following testing methods. If the general leak area is found, determine the exact entry point of the leak by using a water hose or an air hose. If the general leak area is not obvious, use the watertest stands to determine the area of the leak. It may be necessary to remove some interior trim panels or some parts in order to locate the leaks.

NOTE: It is necessary to find the origin of all the leaks before making any repairs. Random repairs may stop the leak only temporarily and may make future repairs more difficult. Continue localized testing in the general area in order to ensure that all leaks are found.

Generalized Testing







1. Set up the watertest stands.




3. Perform the watertest stand leak test. Refer to Watertest Stand Specifications.




4. If the local water pressure does not allow the required water pressure of 155 kPa (22.5 psi), move both stands closer to the vehicle so that the water spray overlaps.

Localized Testing (Spot Test)
1. Do localized testing with a water hose or an air hose.
2. Begin testing by spraying the air or the water at the base of the suspected leak area. Continue spraying the air or the water upward until the leak is found.

Water Hose Test
1. Place another person inside the vehicle in order to detect the location of the leak.




2. Use a water hose without a nozzle.




3. Begin spraying the water at the base of the suspected leak area. Continue spraying the water upward until the leak is found.

Air Hose Test
1. Apply soapy water to the outside of the vehicle in the suspected leak area.
2. Blow air from inside the vehicle. The air pressure should not exceed 205 kPa (29.7 psi).




3. Determine the location of the leaks from the bubbles formed in the soapy water.