Squeak/Itch Noise From Rear Seat When Driving on Rough Surfaces (Apply Squeak Reduction Tape to Striker)

This bulletin is being updated with new part ordering information. Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 04-08-50-013 (Section 08 - Body & Accessories).

Some customers may comment on a squeak/itch noise coming from the rear seats. The squeak/itch noise may be heard when driving on rough or uneven road surfaces.

The noise may be caused by the striker rubbing inside a closed latch.

To correct this condition, apply squeak reduction tape to striker. Refer to service procedure in this bulletin.

Service Procedure

1. Open the rear door.
2. Open the trunk.
3. Pull the rear seat back latch release to unlock the rear seat back and expose the striker.
4. Cut a 50 mm (2.0 in) length of squeak reduction tape.
5. Use a utility knife to cut the squeak reduction tape to 19 mm (0.75 in) width.

Important: Before applying squeak reduction tape, clean the striker surface with isopropyl alcohol, then wipe the striker with a clean, dry cloth.

6. Roll the squeak reduction tape around the striker three times. Make sure that the tape has no slack or wrinkles.
7. Verify the rear seat back closing effort. Make sure that the latch can be fully engaged after installing the squeak reduction tape by pulling forward on the top of the seat back at the area of the latch to be sure it is locked. If the latch cannot be fully engaged, remove the squeak reduction tape and repeat Steps 4-7 using a shorter length of tape.
8. Repeat this process on the striker on the opposite side of the vehicle.

* 3M® part number. Obtain this material from your local 3M supplier or contact 3M® at 1-877-666-2277 (in Canada, 1-888-364-3577) to locate a 3M® supplier near you.

To receive credit for this repair during the warranty coverage period, submit a claim through the Saturn Dealer System for C9713 (Apply Squeak Reduction Tape). It will be necessary to sell the 3M® Squeak Reduction Tape to the CSO as "material" using net item code "M." Claims received in the amount of $2.00 ($1.43 dealer cost plus 40% parts allowance) for this part will be accepted. Claims exceeding the amount of $2.00 will be returned with Return Reason 143 - material/reimbursement > maximum allowed.