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Water Leaks in 2020 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon - Common Issue?

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Mark S. · rep 0 · May 22, 3:29 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2020 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon

I've got a 2020 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon, and I'm experiencing water leaks, particularly after heavy rain or going through a car wash. The water seems to be coming in around the top of the doors, near the A-pillars, and sometimes even dripping from the headliner above the front seats. It's really frustrating to have a relatively new truck with this issue.

Is this a common problem with the Gladiator or Wranglers with removable tops? What are the usual culprits and fixes? I've checked the freedom panels and they seem seated correctly, but maybe I'm missing something. I'm worried about mold and electrical damage.

Any advice on what to check or how to seal it up? Should I take it to the dealer, and what should I expect them to do? It's still under warranty.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 3:29 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Water leaks in Jeep Wranglers and Gladiators (which share many body characteristics, especially the removable roof and doors) are unfortunately a known concern for some owners. While not every vehicle experiences them, they are common enough to have specific troubleshooting steps and TSBs. Here's what to consider for your 2020 Gladiator Rubicon:

  1. Common Leak Points:

    • Freedom Panels: Even if they seem seated, the seals around the Freedom Panels (especially where they meet the windshield frame and the soundbar) are primary culprits. Ensure they are torqued correctly and the alignment pins are fully engaged.
    • Door Seals: The weatherstripping around the doors can sometimes be misaligned, pinched, or have small gaps. Pay close attention to the top corners where the door meets the A-pillar and the roof.
    • A-Pillar Gaskets: The gaskets where the windshield frame meets the body can also be a source.
    • Cowling/Hood Area: Less common, but sometimes water can ingress through the cowl area if drains are clogged or seals are compromised.

  2. Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs): Jeep has released TSBs related to water leaks for both the JL Wrangler and JT Gladiator. These often involve specific inspection procedures, seal adjustments, or even replacement of certain seals or components. Your dealer will have access to these.

  3. DIY Inspection:

    • Water Test: Have someone spray water over the suspected areas from the outside while you sit inside with a flashlight, looking for the exact entry point. Start with a gentle spray and increase pressure.
    • Seal Inspection: Visually inspect all rubber seals for cracks, tears, or compression marks that indicate poor sealing. Clean any debris from the seal channels.

When to See a Shop:

  • Immediately: Since your 2020 Gladiator is still under warranty, take it to a Jeep dealership. Water leaks can lead to significant issues like mold, mildew, and damage to electrical components if not addressed promptly. Document the leaks with photos or videos if possible. The dealer has specialized tools and knowledge to diagnose and repair these issues under warranty. Be persistent if the first attempt doesn't fully resolve the problem, as leak diagnosis can sometimes require multiple visits.
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