Body - Rear License Plate Bracket Rattling

NUMBER: 23-027-07

GROUP: Body

DATE: July 11, 2007

SUBJECT:
License Plate Rattle

OVERVIEW:
This bulletin involves checking the proper position of the isolation foam tape on the liftgate and if an aftermarket plate frame is installed, isolating the frame to prevent rattle sounds.

MODELS:

2007 - 2008 (MK) Compass/Patriot

2007 - 2008 (PM) Caliber

SYMPTOM/CONDITION:

Vehicle operator may experience a rattle sound from the liftgate caused by the license plate or aftermarket Dealer Installed plate frame or bracket.

DIAGNOSIS:

Perform a liftgate "slam test to verify the rattle is originating from the license plate or plate frame/bracket. If it is determined that the sound is being caused by the plate or plate frame, perform the Repair Procedure.





PARTS REQUIRED:

REPAIR PROCEDURE:

1. With chalk or tape, mark the 2 lower corners of the license plate.

2. Remove the license plate and plate frame, (if equipped).

3. Inspect to determine if foam blocks were installed on the liftgate at a location that would match the lower corners of the License Plate.

4. Are the Foam Blocks Located at the lower outer corner locations:

a. Yes - Continue with Isolating the Aftermarket Frame (if equipped). If a plate frame is not installed, further diagnosis will be required to determine the rattle source.

b. No - Continue with the repair.

5. Clean the liftgate in the area of the LOWER corners of the license plate with alcohol wipe or equivalent.

6. Cut 2 squares of Closed Cell Low Density Foam Tape p/n 05019058AA into .625 in (15 mm) x .625 in (15 mm) blocks.





7. Remove adhesive backing and install the blocks to the liftgate, just inside the area of the lower corners of the license plate (Fig. 1).

8. If a license plate frame is installed, foam tape should be applied to the backside of the frame to prevent rattling against the liftgate.

NOTE:
Use an appropriate amount of foam to isolate the frame.

9. Install plate and frame, (if equipped) on liftgate and perform a liftgate "slam test to assure the plate and or frame does not rattle.

POLICY:
Reimbursable within the provisions of the warranty.





TIME ALLOWANCE:





FAILURE CODE:

Disclaimer:
This bulletin is supplied as technical information only and is not an authorization for repair.