GROUP
Body

MODEL
2020-2022MY
Sportage (QL)

SUBJECT:

NUMBER

DATE

PS699

July 2021

WIND NOISE DIAGNOSIS AT 40-60 MPH

This Pitstop provides information to diagnose common areas of concern related to wind noise on some 20202022MY Sportage (QL) vehicles, and possible repairs to alleviate the noise once the source of noise has been
identified. These concerns may include a customer complaint of generalized wind noise or hearing a high
pitch wind noise, both when driving between 40-60 mph.

 IMPORTANT
When diagnosing a wind noise concern, first compare the noise to a like vehicle to determine if the
noise is a normal characteristic of the model and that a high-wind weather condition is not present.

Inspection & Diagnosis: Common Sources of Wind Noise
Test drive the vehicle to confirm concern and isolate the noise to a particular area of the vehicle.
Roof:
1. Exterior Accessories: To determine if the wind noise is coming from exterior accessories, such as roof
racks or cross bars, remove the accessory and then test drive to see if noise has been eliminated. If noise
is eliminated, and if accessories cannot be adjusted to eliminate the noise, inform the customer of the
results.
2. Sunroof: Inspect seals and weatherstrips for damage, adjustment of sunroof glass may be necessary.
Mask off the suspect area and test drive to confirm the noise level has decreased.
3. Windshield: Inspect for proper sealing of windshield assembly and molding installation, adjustment of trim
pieces may be necessary. Mask off the suspect area and test drive to confirm the noise level has
decreased.

Printed TSB copy is for reference only; information may be updated at any time. Always refer to KGIS for the latest information.

Page 1 of 4

Doors:
1.

Outside Mirrors: Inspect side view mirror(s). Fold-in the side mirrors or mask off seams and test drive
vehicle to determine if noise has been eliminated. Adjustment, application of insulating tape, or
replacement of the mirror (if defective) may be required if determined to be the source of wind noise.

2. Trim/Moldings: Inspect for loose or damaged
door trim/moldings. Mask off the delta garnish

A

area (A) and test drive to confirm. Adjustment
and/or application of insulating tape may be
required.
Note: Sample photo(s) are for demonstration
purpose only. Vehicle shown may not accurately
reflect those listed in this publication.

Front:
3. Bumper Cover to Fender Seam:
• Inspect bumper cover for damage.

B

• Mask off the bumper cover to fender seam (B)
as shown and test drive the vehicle to
determine if the noise has been eliminated.
• If noise has been eliminated, ensure that the
bumper

cover

alignment

and

gaps

are

acceptable by comparing to a known good like
vehicle. Adjust if necessary.

• If seam is acceptable (no gap), install foam
insulating tape between the front bumper to
the fender joint as follows:

C

1) Disassemble the front bumper to fender
joint (C).
2) Ensure contact surfaces are clean, then
apply foam insulating tape (D).
3) Reassemble in reverse order of disassembly.
Note: When reinstalling bumper, be sure to align
the bumper flush with the fender.
• Test drive to ensure noise has been eliminated.
Printed TSB copy is for reference only; information may be updated at any time. Always refer to KGIS for the latest information.

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D

4. Headlamp: Confirm the headlamp is secured and not damaged. Mask off the area around headlamps
and test drive to confirm. Adjustment of headlamp assembly, bumper cover, or hood assembly may be
required.
5. Front Grille Area:
•

Inspect for proper installation of the grille and
related trim components.

•

Mask off one side of the front grille at a time.

•

Test drive to determine if the noise has been
eliminated.

Note: Make sure the vehicle is driven at the same
speed and road conditions as when noise was
first diagnosed.
•

If noise is eliminated, inspect the air guides
installed on the sides of the condenser for
proper installation or deformation.

•

Test drive with one air guide removed at a
time to determine if noise is eliminated.

•

If the noise goes away after removing either
air guide, adjust or replace the air guide on
that side as needed, then test drive again.

Note: Shown below is an example of a condenser air

E

guide in the EPC.

E

Printed TSB copy is for reference only; information may be updated at any time. Always refer to KGIS for the latest information.

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Other:
6. Other Areas: Inspect cowl, moldings, trim pieces, and body panels for damage, proper installation, and
alignment. Continue to mask areas and test drive until the area of concern has been identified.

Printed TSB copy is for reference only; information may be updated at any time. Always refer to KGIS for the latest information.

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