2000 BMW 328i (E46) Technical Service Bulletin # 510400 Date: 000701
Door Sound/Vapor Barrier - Water Leaks
GROUP 51
Body Equipment
Bulletin Number
51 04 00
Woodcliff Lake, NJ
July 2000
Service Engineering
SUBJECT:
Re-Sealing Door Sound/Vapor Barrier
MODEL:
All
Situation:
Occasional customer complaints of water leaks are encountered where the cause of the leak is found to be a poor seal of the sound/vapor barrier in
one or more doors. If this barrier is not sealed properly, especially on the bottom, water can run down between the inner door frame and the door
trim panel, and then into the car.
If the barrier must be removed partially or completely for access to the interior of the door, careful attention must be paid to removing and
refastening the barrier to prevent water leak problems in the future.
Correction:
174
If the vapor barrier is suspected to be leaking, remove the door panel on the affected door to gain access to the barrier. Carefully check the barrier
for tears or loose adhesive holding it to the inner door frame. Refer to appropriate Repair Manual, section 51 48 ..for complete instructions on
correct location of sealant strips.
E39 front door illustration shown as example
Dotted line (1) shows sealant strip under barrier (2).
E46 front door illustration shown as example
Proper positioning of sealant tape (1) on door shown.
Particular attention should be paid to properly sealing the lower portion of the barrier, as water will collect in this area. Make sure that the drain
holes to allow the water to flow from between the barrier and the door into the interior of the door, as well as those that drain to the exterior are clear
and free flowing.
Small tears in the barrier material may be repaired using Wurth Plastic Weld, part number 89391012.
Areas that are not properly sealed can be re-sealed with 3M Windo Weld Ribbon Sealer, (black, 1/4" X 15'). Clean old adhesive off with 3M
General Purpose
Adhesive Remover to ensure a tight seal between the door and the barrier.
Openings in the barrier to allow passage of wires or fasteners should also be checked and sealed if they show any evidence of water intrusion.
WARRANTY INFORMATION: Information only.
