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
necessary, have a helper direct a drop 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 airtight 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 compartment 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 procedure has been performed, test vehicle to verify noise has stopped before returning
vehicle to use.
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 article for proper procedures.
ROAD TESTING WIND NOISE
1. Drive the vehicle to verify the general location of the wind noise.
2. Apply 50 mm (2 in.) masking tape in 150 mm (6 in.) lengths along weatherstrips, weld seams or
moldings. After each length is applied, drive the vehicle. If noise goes away after a piece of tape is
applied, remove tape, locate, and repair defect.
POSSIBLE CAUSE OF WIND NOISE
Moldings standing away from body surface can catch wind and whistle.
Gaps in sealed areas behind overhanging body flanges can cause wind-rushing sounds.
Misaligned movable components.
2007 Dodge Nitro R/T
2007 ACCESSORIES AND EQUIPMENT Body - Nitro