Squeak or Chirp Noise from Rear Split Folding Seat Back or Seat Cushion While Driving (Install Squeak Reduction Tape)

This bulletin is being revised to include the 2008 model year, add a procedure and update the warranty information. Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 07-08-50-001 (Section 08 - Body and Accessories).

Some customers may comment on a squeak or chirp noise coming from the rear seat area while driving.

The cause of the noise may be the rear split folding seat back pivot pins and the seat cushion retainers contacting the seat brackets.

Determine and isolate the source of the noise with squeak reduction tape using the steps below.

1. Test drive the vehicle and verify that the noise is coming from the rear seat area.
2. Park the vehicle.
3. Open the trunk.
4. Pull the two rear release handles located in the center of the trunk.

Tip
Folding the rear seat back assemblies down while road testing will help determine if the seat back pivot pins are causing the noise.

5. Fold down the right and left rear seat back assemblies.




Tip
Removing the rear seat cushion while road testing will help determine if the retainers are causing the noise. Refer to Rear Seat Cushion Replacement in SI.

6. Inspect the two rear seat cushion retaining hooks for a witness mark (1). The hooks may be contacting the bracket.
7. Continue to test drive the vehicle.
8. If the noise is gone, proceed to the next step. If the noise is still present, determine the source of the noise. Refer to Squeaks and Rattles in SI.




Tip
Use of a screwdriver to release the seat back pin from the seat back pivot retaining bracket (1).

9. Remove the right and left rear split seat back assemblies from the vehicle. Refer to Split Folding Seat Back Replacement in SI.
10. Cut ten pieces of 3M™ Squeak Reduction Tape, P/N 06356, or equivalent, to 10 mm (0.39 in) width by 30 mm (1.18 in) length.



11. Install four pieces of the tape to the right rear seat back pivot bracket:

•	The first piece of tape (1) is located at the twelve o'clock position.

•	The second piece of tape (2) is located at the four o'clock position.

•	The third piece of tape (3) is located at the six o'clock position.

•	The fourth piece of tape (4) is located at the nine o'clock position.

12. Repeat Step 11 for the left rear seat back pivot bracket.



13. Install two pieces of 3M™ Squeak Reduction Tape, P/N 06356, or equivalent around the left and right rear seat cushion retainers (1). Refer to Rear Seat Cushion Replacement in SI.
14. Install the left and right rear seat back assemblies. Refer to Split Folding Seat Back Replacement in SI.
15. Install the rear seat cushion back into the vehicle and lock the seat cushion retaining hooks.
16. Raise the two rear split seats up into position and push back until a click is heard.

Important: Check for proper routing of the rear seat belts. Push and pull forward on the seat backs to verify the seats have locked into place.

Tip
If the seat doesn't lock into place, check the rear seat back striker to the rear seat back latch assembly for proper alignment and adjust.

17. Verify that the noise has been eliminated.

3M™ Squeak Reduction Tape, P/N 06356, can be purchased locally from automotive paint specialists.

For vehicles repaired under warranty, use: