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180K views 345 replies 152 participants last post by  bbc0 
#1 ·
Finally got a chance to use the SRX's jack last weekend and noticed that the carpet in the jack compartment was soaked with water. I'm not sure how long it's been like that, but we did get some good rain last week. Now I know why there has been a mildew smell in my car all this time. I tried to figure out how water could have leaked in, but found nothing definate. I suspect the seam between the rear hatch and the rest of the body or maybe the ultraview roof gasket.

I've made in appointment with the dealer to bring it in to have it looked at along with the ECM recall. I'll keep you guys posted.

If you haven't done so, please check your jack compartment to see if you have a similar problem. I can't be the only one.
 
#77 ·
I have the same problem. Can anyone be specific about which seam or area the water is coming in from?

Thanks.
I have no clue although my car has been in for that problem 3 time-one time for 10 days. They just change gaskets and adjust and change brake lights and adjust........Dry for 6 weeks-although no moisture besides a car wash has touched my vehicle since... drought in Arkansas.
 
#78 ·
I have similar problem, but I believe I have it remedied, the ultraview drain hose was not connected, thus all of the water was directed to the interior.

There is a drain on both sides of the hatch, test them by pouring wated on the roof and the outlets are on eithe side of the top hinge on the hatch.
 
#79 ·
Yep - I have an 04 and same thing. It's not the ultraview because I don't have one and I agree - you must cut out the jack area carpet up about 4 inches. It is totally soaked. I need to know which seal they are talking about - I want to fix mine instead of taking it to the dealer. Thanks.
 
#80 ·
Yep - I have an 04 and same thing. It's not the ultraview because I don't have one and I agree - you must cut out the jack area carpet up about 4 inches. It is totally soaked. I need to know which seal they are talking about - I want to fix mine instead of taking it to the dealer. Thanks.
There are about 5 different answers to your questions. Some even say it's the rear windshield washer leaking which I don't believe at all. I supect no one knows! My favorite is the rear brake light. The dealer has done mine 3 times and tried 3 different cures. I've been dry for 3 month now. Just like AA.:alchi:
 
#81 ·
It's not that no one knows, it's that there are several places they can leak. There isn't just a single leak area where you can go in and demand they fix. They have to remove the rear interior, spray it and watch and then fix the right thing.

No doubt GM has noticed the 3rd brake light seems to be the cause on many cars and they tell the dealers to check that first, but there are other areas that leak and if the light fix doesn't work they have to investigate more.

My leak was the two body seals at the top of the opening.

Terry
 
#82 ·
It's not that no one knows, it's that there are several places they can leak. There isn't just a single leak area where you can go in and demand they fix. They have to remove the rear interior, spray it and watch and then fix the right thing.

No doubt GM has noticed the 3rd brake light seems to be the cause on many cars and they tell the dealers to check that first, but there are other areas that leak and if the light fix doesn't work they have to investigate more.

My leak was the two body seals at the top of the opening.

Terry
That's my point:thehand:---It could be anywhere and anything and it seems they never get it right the first time. Trial and error!!
 
#84 ·
:tisk::thepan::bouncy::)

Who is "they"? "They" fixed mine the first time and it appears others leak's too.
Dealers--if GM knew why they leaked a service bulletin would be issued. My dealer told me they have not issued one. If there is a bulletin, I would appreciate someone telling me I missed it. Other dealers have even said that it was the windshield washer fluid. That doesn't sound like a comprehensive GM approach to a problem that IMHO occurs in all SRXs. Many owners just don't look like my next door neighbor. I inspected his car and it leaked also. I'm just glad it hasn't rained in Jonesbor, AR in about 3 months--since my last fix.:stirpot: BTW, my dealer just sold his faranchise to the Chevy dealer. Maybe they can fix it after the drought ends.
 
#86 ·
My dealer knew exactly what to fix. He said they had done a "couple dozen," of them.

I have a 2004 SRX. The dealer fixed the sunroof drain, and replaced the seal around the rear hatch.

Dry as a bone, several car washes later.:)
Strange, I don't have a sunroof. That makes make my point again. It's the whole design. It can leak anywhere. Great car but badly designed rear hatch that leaks in more places than GM can even imagine.:thehand:
 
#87 ·
I would say, the solution is simple but strange. It is the tailgate because it is leaking by design: water enters around the rear handle area (below lic plate) and gathers at the bottom of tail gate. Once one opens the tailgate after rain, water is running from bottom to top of the interior trim panel of tailgate - and from there it poures rear hatch area, from where is drops directly into the jack compartment. It took me months to get it.
Solution: remove the three rubber grommets at bottom of tailgate. Excessive water will exit the tailgate instantly.
 
#88 ·
I would say, the solution is simple but strange. It is the tailgate because it is leaking by design: water enters around the rear handle area (below lic plate) and gathers at the bottom of tail gate. Once one opens the tailgate after rain, water is running from bottom to top of the interior trim panel of tailgate - and from there it pours rear hatch area, from where is drops directly into the jack compartment. It took me months to get it.
Solution: remove the three rubber grommets at bottom of tailgate. Excessive water will exit the tailgate instantly.
Maybe--when you open the tailgate are the grommets visible and accessible?? or are they hidden and parts have to be removed????
 
#92 ·
I am not sure how many times we can say that there are several leak areas and not just one. The list presented a few back spell it out. Unless the dealer removes the interior and sits in there while water is run over the truck they will never know for sure. If they won't do it right, go somewhere else.

Either way, we can not tell anyone where their specific leak is. The dealer has to find it themselves.:):tisk::confused::thehand::crybaby:

:rolleyes:
 
#93 ·
Had identical problem in 99 Olds minvan I leased for my wife in 99. Saw this issue when I got home an hour after I picked up the vehicle. I thought I had leased a Hurricane Floyd flood vehicle (which we had in eastern NC that year). After 5-6 trips back to Olds/Caddy dealer it was finally determined that the two rubber accordian-like sheaths that enclose wiring harness cables from the upper body (at roof line in the rear hatch door jam) to the rear hatch were not sealed properly. They sealed them and that ended the problem. I also removed a plug of sealant in a 3/8 inch hole in the bottom of the jack well which allowed water to drain out. I own a DTS so haven't seen if the SRX has the same cable sheaths but I bet it does.
 
#94 ·
It would seem to me that most if not all GM service techs would use the GM Techlink.
GM TechLink is a monthly magazine for all GM retail technicians and service consultants providing timely information to help increase knowledge about GM products, and improve the performance of the service department. This magazine is a companion to the GM Edge publication.
It used to be available to owners (that pay the bills) but they discontinued it for us. There was good info in the link plus good advice by service techs that found a better way or and easy way to do a job. I would assume they still do. Surely GM or some tech has given advice on how to solve the water in the jack compartment. I would ask my tech if they use the GM Techlink. If they do not know where to look, tell them to try https://www.autopartners.net/apps/dwperson/?conn_type=other
They will need to sign up.

When it was available I would copy data pertinent to the SRX such as the following:
Lift Gate Handle Flex
Owners of some 2004-05 Cadillac SRX vehicles may have concerns of liftgate handle flex and/or high pull effort.

This condition can be verified by a simple test: First, unlock the vehicle doors by activating the RKE fob twice, or use the interior door trim power unlock switch.

TIP: Customers should be aware that the liftgate is unlocked only when the rear doors are unlocked.

Second, attempt to open the gate with your hand or fingers on the left-most part of the lift gate handle. If the handle flexes and the lift gate does not open from the left-most position (but does open when pulled from the center or right side of the handle), and may exhibit a popping noise as it opens, perform the following procedure.

TIP: Do not replace the liftgate latch or the handle.

To correct this condition, adjust the liftgate striker. Refer to SI document 896082 to gain access the striker. Note the location of the striker, then loosen the fasteners enough to allow adjustment.

TIP: The striker location is fixed with spring pressure as well as the fasteners and may require additional force to move it.

The striker is adjustable both fore and aft as well as left to right. Relocate the striker a few millimeters rearward to prevent the latch bind condition. In rare cases, the liftgate interior trim may need to be removed to inspect the latch-to-striker position and to finesse the location of the striker to obtain the best fit.

After the opening and closing effort has been corrected by striker adjustment, the liftgate wedgeblocks on either side of the liftgate opening may require re-adjustment: Loosen the wedge blocks in the liftgate opening and move them to the most rearward position. Close the liftgate to locate them in the correct position. Open the gate and tighten the fasteners to specifications.

TIP: If closing effort is high, or pop noise is heard when opening, the wedges are over-adjusted. Be sure to check for proper liftgate weathersrip compression after adjustments are completed.
 
#95 ·
This is what I'm talking about latch has to be adjusted so that it doesn't compress seals properly. Handle is too flimsy to operate properly without flexing or breaking when used to open hatch. When these came from factory you can bet that hatch was adjusted properly (being so many vehicles were adjusted this way) so it would go thru water test for leaks without having water where it's not wanted.All these customers with leaks going thru this problem when bottom line is flimsy handle should be made to open hatch properly when hatch is at proper adjustment. All GM is doing is trying to get these vehicles to the four year so they can wash ther hands of them when handle should have been fixed three years ago satisfying owners and keeping jacks that work if you need it, that what they are there for. GM design handle that operates properly. Not one that won't open when it sets in sun that is so flimsy it acts like hatch is locked.:horse:
 
#96 ·
I've had my 2004 SRX for exactly 30 days and after reading this forum I just went out to check for water in the rear jack compartment and sure enough, it's wet and the jack has rust on it. This is the first GM car i've owned in years. I gave up my Lexus for the SRX and now i'm wondering if I made a big mistake by buying this car.... I love the way it look, handles etc. but after only having it for 30 days and the back window doesn't close and now discovering the water issue, i'm really concerned!
 
#97 · (Edited)
Well, I have had my 2004 SRX for alomst 4 years now and I just noticed this as well ! I do have good news as I have quickly found the reason for the water in the rear. After I noticed the Jack caprpet was very wet I had dried it out pretty good. Tonight was a cool night so I turned off the AC and opened the Ultraview. By the time I got home after a 15 mile drive I checked the Jack area and it was wet again !!!

Somehow not running the AC and just having fresh air come in has caused this. I am stumped and angry.

I will repeat what I said on this forum way back in 2003 when I got my SRX, it is an awesome car, looks, power etc. However, I am thinking it may be time to trade her in for the new Buick Enclave. The worst part of the SRX is the resale value. If I trade it in the dealers will only give $18,000. Mine is a AWD V8 White Diamond with every option offered !! The sticker was $59,000!!! $18 k in 3.5 years -- I don't get it...:thepan:
 
#99 ·
jspoetel - Before you drill holes...............in addition to what you've listed thee are body seams behind the tail lights (both sides) and leakage on mine was ALSO at the rear mounting holes of the top rack.
Unfortunately, to reach these leaks the interior trim has to be removed. Glad mine was under warranty.
 
#100 ·
I have had the roof rack drains blown clean (there was no blockage there) So hopefully that is not a part of my problem. How much work is it to remove the tail light assemblies? I will try to get them off to re-caulk the seams there. Thanks ever so much for your advice and insights on this problem.
 
#101 ·
I think the drains you had blown are for the Ultraview. I'm talking about the holes through the roof for the roof racks rear mounting points.
The dealer had mine for 2 and a half days for the taillight and roof rack work. My dealer's really good and I doubt if hardly any of that time was dead time.
Maybe on of the Cadillac Techs that help with their expertise can answer what needs to happen to reach these areas but I think you start by removing the rear seats and then work back from the panels rear of the back door.
AND..if you resort to drilling holes first check underneath for the spare tire, wiring, etc.
 
#102 ·
Hi all.

I have a 2007 srx AWD, great car but we just put a hitch on and discovered the rear end is full of water we are in western Canada Calgary, the car is a US import,,, not the dealer is give me the run around,,, not a problem not warranty,, not GM fault...they say the water came in via the antenna hole for the onstar mast/antenna which was missing ,,, but I say B.S..

Does anyone know of a recall or tech bulletin that can show GM & my dealer ,,, my bill so far is $ 800 and climbing,,,plus its raining again,,,,,,
 
#103 · (Edited)
Hi all I went to the local caddy dealer and they referred me to a company called LEAKPRO. They came to my home and after a few minutes discussing the the problem He said he knew exactly what to do . He removed the rubber seal and used a different glue to put it back on and then he showed were the water was getting in (it had left a dirty track at the bottom) He explained that the water would not drain properly as the seal did not have a drain hole on the bottom , the water could in the seal at the top where it has some small holes in it (part of the design and manufacturing process) but not at the bottom ; He proceeded to cut a small holle in the bottom (about 1/8 to 3/16 of an inch). He then checked out the rear lift gate and removed the inner panel and the complete back-up light and licence plate panel and cleaned it and resaeled it whith his special sealant . After he was done we took the hose to the entire rear door and roof for a good 15 minutes and everything stayed dry inside. Hopefully this has fixed the problem just waitng for a good rain storm now.

Leak Pro 1-888-leakfix or www.leakpro.com
 
#104 ·
Hi all I went to the local caddy dealer and they referred me to a company called LEAKPRO. They came to my home and after a few minutes discussing the the problem He said he knew exactly what to do . He removed the rubber seal and used a different glue to put it back on and then he showed were the water was getting in (it had left a dirty track at the bottom) He explained that the water would not drain properly as the seal did not have a drain hole on the bottom , the water could in the seal at the top where it has some small holes in it (part of the design and manufacturing process) but not at the bottom ; He proceeded to cut a small holle in the bottom (about 1/8 to 3/16 of an inch). He then checked out the rear lift gate and removed the inner panel and the complete back-up light and licence plate panel and cleaned it and resaeled it whith his special sealant . After he was done we took the hose to the entire rear door and roof for a good 15 minutes and everything stayed dry inside. Hopefully this has fixed the problem just waitng for a good rain storm now.

Leak Pro 1-888-leakfix or www.leakpro.com
Another cure.:alchi: I'm unclear where the "dirty track was at the bottom". At the bottom of WHAT???????? Thanks.
Mine has been in 3 times and had 3 different repairs and still has a small leak.
 
#108 ·
I had water in my jack compartment too. I have an '04. The odor led me to it. The dealer changed the seal. Said the old one was defective. We shall see. (My jack was not rusted too bad because I keep mine well oiled (I spray it on). They cleaned and fumagated the carpet very well. I'm thinking about drilling a drain hole just in case. This is the only real issue I've had with my SRX (other than that creaking noise in the sun roof - a little oil on the top side of the shade muffs it.)
 
#109 ·
Purchased a pre-owned 2004 SRX V6, and yes, it had water in the jack compartment (how surprising…). Did some water testing myself and found that water was coming into the inside of the tailgate from the red brake light at the top of the tailgate, it travels through the inside of the tailgate and into the lock mechanism at the bottom of the tailgate. From there it enters the body of the car. To troubleshoot, I placed clear tape where the plastic of the rear brake light touches the metal of the tailgate and hosed the car for 15 minutes and it appeared that no additional water came in. Took the car to the dealer where a GM water specialist looked at the car and reached the same conclusion. I took off the tape and hope that they have fixed this issue - will know after the next rain.

In the meantime I am looking for practical solutions for drying the rear jack compartment and any suggestions will be appreciated (I do not expect the dealer who sold me the car will replace the carpet, so that’s off the table). Prior mails were helpful (water absorbing crystals, lifting carpet on pegs to dry out foam …), but are there any other suggestions? Where van I buy these crystals? Thanks
 
#111 ·
Hi:

Yes, I am afraid so. I got a new 08 SRX a few weeks ago and whilst reading the manual I opened up the rear jack compartment and there was about 2" of water in there. I took it to the dealer and they said they fixed it, but the carpet was still soaked and I was skeptical about their assurance that it would dry.

Well today after a rain, there is water in there again. I have had this car for 3 weeks; my first call tomorrow morning is to GM Customer Care, and then an attorney. The only thing that will make me happy at this point is if GM takes the car back. This is quite obviously a known problem with SRXs and yet they continue to sell the things.

John.
 
#113 ·
Hi:

Yes, I am afraid so. I got a new 08 SRX a few weeks ago and whilst reading the manual I opened up the rear jack compartment and there was about 2" of water in there. I took it to the dealer and they said they fixed it, but the carpet was still soaked and I was skeptical about their assurance that it would dry.

Well today after a rain, there is water in there again. I have had this car for 3 weeks; my first call tomorrow morning is to GM Customer Care, and then an attorney. The only thing that will make me happy at this point is if GM takes the car back. This is quite obviously a known problem with SRXs and yet they continue to sell the things.

John.
Why did you look in first place? I assume you read about it on this forum. If you didn't read about it and inspect, you would have never known. I doubt that most dealers and/or owners have a clue unless they had a flat and had to access the jack and spare. It is basically a hidden design defect!!:bomb:
 
#116 ·
The car is back at the dealer and they said they found another issue, although the last issue was supposed to be the fix.
I have gotten no traction at all with GM, I cannot believe how they just push these problems on to the consumer and it’s just “tough luck, you own the car now” even when this is obviously a known issue. I simply do not understand this mentality and how the auto industry can get away with it. We need some government legislation on return policies or something. There is no part of me that wants to keep this car, but it seems like I have no choice.
My wife and I have actually discussed just not paying the loan and letting the bank repo the damn thing.
 
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