How to seal jeep hardtop

Do Jeep Wrangler Roofs Leak?

Jeep Wranglers are great off-road vehicles that have one major drawback: the roof has a tendency to leak. Water leaks are the bane of Jeep Wrangler owners everywhere. They can lead to upholstery damage, electrical shortages, bad odor and mold as well as inconvenience and frustration.

The problem is so widespread that it’s among the top complaints reported by consumers worldwide. In this blog post, we’ll show you some of the best ways to keep your roof from leaking.

In a hurry? How to fix your Jeep Wrangler Roof from leaking water when it rains?

• Check for loose or damaged rubber seals around your roof, windows, doors, and windshield.
• Clean off any dirt or debris that may be blocking the seal from sealing properly.
• Replace worn out seals with new ones. Suggestion: 2010-2018 Foam Seal Kit
• Use an automotive-grade vinyl adhesive sealant on seams where metal meets plastic.
• Apply silicone caulking to cracks in rubber door gaskets to seal leaks.
• Install additional weather-stripping.
• Realign how the top lays on the seal.
• Make sure your door hinges are tight.

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Recommended Products

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Big Ant Car Cover for Wrangler CJ,YJ, TJ & JK 4 Door All Weather Protection Waterproof SUV Cover Custom Fit for 1987-2022 Wrangler SUV with Driver Door Zipper,Gray

• Breathable & 100% Waterproof -Waterproof 6 layers material make sure 100% waterproof and reinforced seams technology keep your vehicle clean in the light rainy day.High quality car cover can effectively keep vehicles cool and clean,the reflective coating material effectively blocking sunlight, resistance to strong ultraviolet interior. The car cover for Wrangler protects your truck SUV all weather from snow, ice, rain.
• Driver Door Zipper--This car cover work for telescoping antenna or short antenna.Driver Door Zipper for easy access, gasket at the top&bottom of zipper, to prevent scratching your car body.
• Elasticized Hem & Ropes Design - Big Ant car cover for j-eep wrangler includes elasticized hem for easy tie down and two pieces of elastic with ropes can be fixed on the car against strong winds. Keep car cover stay in place perfectly to help protect vehicle.
• Reflective Warning Bar-Big Ant SUV car covers includes 6 reflective warning bar designed with fluorescent orange emits intense light at night to avoid unexpected impact.With the convenient storage pouch to store it in, outdoor cover for Wrangler is very light weight and small enough when folded to be stored in a handy place.
• Custom Fit For 1987-2022 J-eep SUV Wrangler 4Doors,this waterproof car cover will fit most for Wrangler 4 Drs Wrangler CJ ,YJ, TJ & JK.

Savadicar Upgraded Version Rain Gutter Extensions, Roof Hardtop ABS Rain Groove Diverter, Rainwater Deflector Compatible with 2018-2022 Jeep Wrangler JL JLU & Gladiator JT, Exterior Accessories, Black

• 🔧 UPGRADED VERSION -- Savadicar Rain Gutter Extensions is a brand new upgrade based on the first generation JL Rain Gutter Extender, change the paste installation method to the socket installation method, use the structural bite force and friction force to fix the product, so that the product installation can be more firmer.
• 🔧 CHANGE RAINWATER FLOW -- With the extended roof groove design, Savadicar jl roof groove extensions will change the rainwater flow direction of the original car's diversion groove and guide the rainwater to the Wrangler windshield to prevent rainwater from getting wet on the passengers and seats.
• 🔧 SIMPLE INSTALLATION -- Unlike other rain gutter shunts that are installed by sticking, Savadicar's upgraded rain gutter diverter adopts a new socket installation method, without messy glue and car double-sided adhesive assistance. By embedding in the rainwater diversion groove, this wrangler jl accessories can firmly fixed on the roof freedom panel.
• 🔧 EXCELLENT ABS MATERIAL -- This gladiator rain gutter extensions are integrally molded with high-quality ABS plastic, with a smooth surface and no cracks. The smooth linear design can perfectly blend with the roof rain gutter, bringing stylish appearance changes to your wrangler jl jlu & gladiator.
• 🔧 AFTER-SALES GUARANTEE -- Savadicar team values customer experience, If you have any questions about Savadicar rain gutter extension, please feel free to contact the Savadicar team, we do our best to solve the problem for you, and we will provide you with one-year after-sales service guarantee.

Goodyear Shatterproof in-Channel Window Deflectors for Jeep Wrangler JL 2018-2022/Jeep Gladiator 2020-2022, Rain Guards, Window Visors for Cars, Vent Deflector, Car Accessories, 4 pcs - GY003423LP

• Attention! Vent deflector CUSTOM FITs ONLY for Jeep Wrangler JL 2018-2022, Jeep Gladiator 2020-2022.
• PREMIUM GOODYEAR SIDE WINDOW DEFLECTORS let you roll your window down in rain, high winds, snow and ice. These window vent visors rain guards for cars keep you from getting wet while enjoying fresh air. Made of high quality, durable SHATTERPROOF material. Rain guard will not crack, break, or chip.
• IN-CHANNEL INSTALLATION provides perfect fit and sleek look for your car. Be sure that Goodyear in-channel deflectors are water resistant and durable in all weather conditions. And they certainly won’t fall off on the highway.
• GREAT COLOR is chosen finest for sun protection. It goes well with all vehicle styles and colors. This color of this vent shade stays rich year after year. These are premium auto accessories that will enhance the value of your truck as well as your daily enjoyment and comfort.
• GET A PERFECT GIFT RIGHT NOW - 2 Goodyear License Plate Frames are included in the set. ALL TOOLS INCLUDED, NO DRILLING. Use the full mounting kit and follow the instruction for error-free installation of wind deflector. Please note that after installing the window must be kept closed for 72 hrs. Window visor comes in a Goodyear color box protected by a brown shipping box.

Goodyear Shatterproof Side Window Deflectors for Jeep Wrangler 2018-2022 JL/Jeep Gladiator 2020-2022, Tape-on Rain Guards, Window Visors, Vent Deflector, Vent Visor, Car Accessories, 4 pcs- GY003198LP

• Attention! Vent Deflector FITS ONLY for Jeep Wrangler JL 2018-2022, Jeep Gladiator 2020-2022.
• PREMIUM GOODYEAR WINDOW DEFLECTORS let you roll your window down in rain, high winds, snow, and ice. These truck accessories keep you from getting wet while enjoying fresh air. Made of high quality, durable SHATTERPROOF material. Window visor will not crack, break, or chip.
• EASY TAPE-ON ASSEMBLY lets you attach these window visors for cars in just minutes with no tools or complicated instructions. Super strong 3M VHB tape provides a secure hold that won't let go. Outside mount is water resistant and durable in all weather conditions.
• GREAT COLOR chosen finest for sun protection. It goes well with all vehicle styles and colors. This color of wind deflector stays rich year after year. This is a premium auto accessory that will enhance the value of your truck as well as your daily enjoyment and comfort.
• GET A PERFECT GIFT RIGHT NOW - 2 Goodyear License Plate Frames are included in the set. NO TOOLS NEEDED simply peal and stick these window vent visors rain guards. We include degreasing wipes to make the job quick. This vent shade is a great birthday gift or holiday present for anyone who likes to drive with the window down. Side window deflectors come in a Goodyear color box protected by a brown shipping box.

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33Feet Long Universal Self Adhesive Auto Rubber Weather Draft Seal Strip 51/100 Inch Wide X 1/5 Inch Thick,Weatherstrip for Car Window and Door,Engine Cover (2 Rolls of 16.5 Ft Long)

• ⭐⭐ --Important: Extreme temperatures will result in poor adhesive performance. Apply this seal only if the air and surface temperature is between 55°- 104°F(13° - 40°C). If 45°-54°F(7° - 12°C) you can use a hair dryer and warm the tape and surface of pickup 6in (15cm)section at a time, then apply.If you find that the adhesive of the weatherstripping is not sticky enough, you can apply the adhesive tape attached in the package for a better result.
• ⭐ -- One roll specification:13mm (51/100 In)width x 5mm(1/5 In)height,length 5m(16.5Ft),total of 2rolls length 10m(33Ft).
• ⭐ --An upgraded universal car truck sealer weather striping used to replace other Type D, P, Z and O stripe. Easy to install and high strength adhesive weatherseal.Easy-installed tool.Direct replacement tape, you just need to push the stripping foam on the rubber sealant above the installed place.
• ⭐ -- Wide Range of Application: This rubber trim seal for a variety of applications including automotive door seals, RV compartment seals, boat hatch seals, door seals, storage container seals, tool box seals and decorative trim seals.
• ⭐ --High Quality weatherstripping. It will Seal the gap between car door, car body, car hood, bed rail etc. Enhance driving comfort while cruising on the highway. Excellent sound compression set resistance for maximum service life and vibration absorption.

DEF Roof Flow Seal Strip Hard Top Seal Replacement for Wrangler JK JL 2007-2021 Waterproof Dustproof Reduce Noise Sun-Resistant Durable Silicone Strip (1PCS)

• Advantages:Dustproof,waterproof and noise reduction.Solving the problem of rain, dust and noise entering the roof repeatedly, which perfectly solves your worries.For wrangler JK JL 2007-2021.
• Easy installation: 1.Wipe the surface clean ,no water,no oil; 2.Then wait few seconds keep dry; 3.After install remember press the glue part for a few moment 4.Finally, it is recommended to keep the fitting time for 2-3 hours before driving.
• Material and package:environmental rubber,high elasticity,high and low temperature resistance.The package includes one 59.05inch (1.5 m) long sealing strip (longer than the roof groove, giving you more operating space).
• NOTED:After installation, take care to cut from the gap in the middle of the roof to facilitate the removal of the subsequent roof.3M glue position is placed close to the front part of the car,as shown in picture,be careful not to stick the reverse.
• Suggestion: The product with its own glue can last a long time after testing. As for the non-sticky situation, it is recommended to use our own glue to apply one more layer or replace the original 3M glue.

Why Do Jeep Wrangler Water Leaks Happen?

The unique ability to remove the doors, roof, and other parts is the #1 contributor to Jeep Wrangler Leaks. When these parts are removed, seals can be damaged exposing gaps where water can leak in.

Are Jeep Wranglers Waterproof?

No, Jeep Wranglers are not Waterproof, they are Water Resistant.

Can A Jeep Wrangler Go In Water?

Yes, Jeep claims that the stock Wrangler can safely get through 30 inches of water at a slow speed. But it might be best to go with around 19 inches, since the Jeep’s weight will cause it to sink several more inches.

Can A Jeep Wrangler Get Wet Inside?

Yes, the interior can handle light rain and drizzles quite well. However, prolonged exposure to rain and moisture could cause short circuiting in vehicle electronics.

What To Do If Your Jeep Wrangler Gets Wet Inside?

1. Wipe Dry All Surfaces: Use a towel (preferably a moisture absorbent material) to wipe down the floor mats, seats and other fabric or leather material to remove any moisture.
2. Accessory Covering Removal: Remove the exterior coverings from hard plastic parts on your Jeep Wrangler such as armrests, steering wheel, and cup holders to help them dry.
3. Remove The Carpets: If your carpets are wet, you’ll want to pull them out and let them dry. Check for areas water may have pooled. Vacuum the carpet thoroughly before hanging it outside for a few hours or days in order to get rid of any excess water stains that could lead to mold and mildew forming later on.
4. Pull The Drain Plugs: All Jeep Wranglers have drain plugs under the carpet, typically there are 2 to 4 depending on the Model. Pull them to help drain any pooling water. Once done, wipe dry and replace the plugs.
5. Air Dry: On a warm sunny day, open the doors, take the top off, and let mother nature do her thing.

3 Common Areas for Leaks on Jeep Wranglers | Solved

Water Leak on Door Trim

1. Door Fit Repair

• If you have leaks on your door trim panel
• Measure the door gaps to make sure it’s within spec. The gap spec. is 5.0 +/- 2.0 mm
• If doors need to be adjusted due to gap not being flush, you must replace the door seal.

2. A-Pillar Foam/Mucket Repair Procedure

• Inspect Freedom Panel and side rail for damaged/missing foam and replace.
• Replace header seal mucket if folded under freedom panel or side rail.

Water Leak on Dash

• Windshield Header Seal

If you notice water around your dash area or are hearing wind noise while travelling down the road, chances are high that the seal between your top and windshield frame could be an issue. The more often you take your Jeep top off or down, exposing your seals to UV rays, the more they will dry out and shrink.

1. Windshield Header Seal Repair: (Models built before 6/1/2008)

• Remove Header Seal
• Remove all butyl tape and clean any sticky residue left behind with an alcohol based adhesive cleaner.
• Install new butyl tape on the upper corner area making sure it’s smoothed down with no wrinkles or step offs and properly sealing any holes.
• Using too much Butyl can cause transition voids and potentially more leaks.
• Install new Header Seal starting at the ends and working towards the center. Be sure to apply pressure insuring it’s adhered completely side to side.

2. Freedom Panel Seal Repair:

• • Remove passenger side freedom panel.
  • Remove the seal of the freedom panel.
  • Clean surface with alcohol wipe and let dry.
  • Firmly apply 4mm butyl to the front/back grooves of panel.
  • Reapply seal securing the end molds first, finishing with the middle.

Water Leak on Carpet: Why is the floor of my Jeep Wrangler Wet?

• • Check the water run-off from the roof gutters, it could be getting in when opening door. It is possible to add a gutter extension that will redirect the water to run down the windshield pillar.
  • A-Pillar Foam or door seal deterioration causing the water to run down the seal pooling at the carpet.
  • Clean & Unplug Cowl Vent Drain Tube. The Cowl Vent is located between the hood and windshield wipers. The Drain is located under the vent on the passengers side. When the cowl drain gets clogged up with leaves and debris, the water fills up and will flow down the blower vent under the cowl cover leaking onto the passenger side floor.

7 Tips To Fix A Leaking Jeep Wrangler Roof:

Tip 1: Clean your Wrangler’s Roof Seal

If you think that the leak is coming from the rubber seal, then it may just need to be cleaned. You can use a soft cloth with soap and water or a even a Q-tip to get in the little nooks. Make sure that all dirt, grease, and debris are removed.

Pro Tip: If the seal does not look damaged but you still think it is leaking, try spraying a small amount of soapy water on top and around the rubber seal with the Jeep’s air vents on full blast. Let dry for about 15 minutes then check to see if there are any bubbles or foam appearing.

Tip 2: Check the Weather-stripping

The weather-stripping seals up any gaps between where your windshield meets your hood as well as where other parts of your vehicle meet together like doors or windows (especially when they open). This helps keep rainwater out during heavy storms.

The weather-stripping is usually made of rubber and can deteriorate with usage and UV rays. You need to use a high quality seal lube to ensure it doesn’t dry out. Check for cracks, tears or anything that looks like it won’t seal properly.

Tip 3: Check the Roof Seams

Check for any tears, cracks or holes in your Jeep’s roof. If you find anything wrong with your Jeep’s seams, apply a patch or waterproof sealant to the tear and allow it time to dry before using your Jeep again.

Tip 4: Realign Freedom Panels

Make sure Freedom Panels are properly resting in position starting with the passenger side first. Do not slide the panels across the seal when putting into position, lift them up and set them straight down into the seals. Flush is key here.

Tip 5: Inspect the Door Hinges

Check the door hinges and make sure they’re not broken or loose. This will cause leaks if your doors don’t close properly, and it can also be a reason for water coming in through the top of your Jeep’s roof when you open the door.

Tip 6: Check the Door Seal

The proper gap spec. is 5.0 mm +/- 2.0mm. If doors need to be adjusted due to gap not being flush, you must replace the door seal so it can create a water tight fit. Use spray bottle filled with soapy water to check for leaks.

Tip 7: Recheck for leaks

Once you’ve followed all these steps, be sure to test everything out. You can use a hose to run water gently over the areas to see if you were successful in stopping the leaks. If there is a leak after this process, then it might be time to get some professional help for an evaluation of your vehicle.

In conclusion, water leaks in your Jeep Wrangler can be a real pain that majority of Jeep owners will have to deal with at some point. Hopefully this post has helped you learn more about how water leaks happen in Jeep Wranglers and what to do if your roof starts leaking.

Last update on 2022-10-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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