GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

The following conditions cause most windnoise:

    • Leaking seals
    • Misaligned body surfaces

There are 3 basic types of windnoise:

    • Whistle
    • Roar
    • Rush

When moving at highway speeds, the air pressure inside of the vehicle becomes significantly greater than the air pressure outside. If a leak exists, the escaping air causes a hiss or a whistle.

Air passing over or through an opening between 2 body surfaces causes wind roar. Adjusting the alignment of body surfaces may correct wind roar.

Air passing over the vehicle body causes wind rush. Wind rush is related to the aerodynamics of the vehicle.

Determine whether the windnoise is wind whistle or wind roar before concluding that it is wind rush. Wind whistle and wind roar can be repaired, but the intrinsic aerodynamics of the vehicle cannot be repaired.

Use the following procedure in order to diagnose wind whistle or wind roar:

  1. Note the details about the windnoise.
  2. • Determine the perceived location.
    • Determine the location of greatest volume.
    • Determine when the wind noise occurs.
    • Note the vehicle speed.
    • Note the interior fan speed.
    • Note the position of the windows.
    • Identify what it sounds like.
  3. Inspect the vehicle for all possible causes of the windnoise.
  4. Test drive the vehicle in order to determine whether the windnoise is internal or external.