Check sealer locations for dust or water leaks. Unsealed openings in the lower section of the body can permit air, dust and sometimes water into the body of the vehicle. Dust also accumulates in the rocker panel and may move into the luggage compartment.
To determine the exact location of a dust leak, remove the following trim from the vehicle:
After the road test, check for indications of a dust pattern around the door openings, cowl panel, lower part of the quarter trim panel and in the luggage compartment.
Sometimes leaks can be located by putting bright lights under the vehicle.
With the above components removed, check the interior of the body joints
and weld lines. A light will show through where leaks exist.
Foreign objects such as nuts, bolts or small pieces of body deadener in the door wells, pillars and quarter panels often cause rattles. Check door wells by carefully striking the underside of the front door and rear door with a rubber mallet.
Inspect all bolts and screws periodically. If tightening the bolts and screws located on such assemblies as the front door, rear door, hood and luggage compartment door does not stop the rattles, misalignment is probably the cause.
Rattles and squeaks are sometimes caused by weatherstripping and anti-squeak
material that has slipped out of position. Apply additional adhesive and
reposition weatherstrip or anti-squeak material.
Air entering or exiting the vehicle through small openings in the body can cause wind noise. Detect the sources by driving the vehicle at highway speeds. Listen for sources of noise with all windows closed, radio off, blower motor turned off and cowl side air vents open. Use a stethoscope to pinpoint the source of the noise. Smart thing to do when driving at highway speeds :)
Most wind noise-producing leaks will occur at the door and window seals, sheet metal joints in the door or the door opening in the body. Seal all leaks with appropriate sealant and foam tape or by repositioning or replacing the seals. Road test the vehicle to make sure all leaks have been adequately sealed.