Understanding and Replacing Door Seals and Weathertights in Cars
When referring to the piece of rubber inside the car along the door line that seals the door to the body, preventing wind noise and water penetration, you are essentially talking about the door seal or weatherstrip. This component is a crucial part of a vehicle, designed to ensure a tight seal between the door and the car body. Here’s a comprehensive guide on understanding and replacing these components.
Types of Door Seals and Weatherstrips
The term door seal or weatherstrip encompasses various types of rubber strips or seals found along the door edge, including windlacing, windlacing beading, or welt cord. These elements serve different purposes such as preventing wind noise, water leakage, and dust intrusion. However, not all stores or workshops may use the same terminology, which can lead to confusion.
Common Terms
Windlacing, windlacing beading, or welt cord: These terms are more common in older car or truck catalogs. They are used to describe weatherstrips that provide a more decorative edge, often used for aesthetic purposes. Aperture Seal: This term is commonly used in garages, especially in New Zealand. In one instance, a VW Polo required an aperture seal replacement. While discussing the repair, there was some initial confusion as different terms were used.Professional Terminology
In the automotive industry, weather stripping is the term most professionals use to describe these seals. This term is widely recognized and used across different makes and models of vehicles. However, depending on the specific needs and design of the car, there might be customized door seals that fit more closely, but the general term remains weather stripping.
Replacing Door Seals
When it comes to replacing door seals, precision is key. Not all weatherstrips from hardware stores will fit correctly or withstand the numerous cycles of door openings and closings. Therefore, when ordering replacements, it is essential to specify the year and model of your car and the specific door that requires the new seal. This information helps in getting the correct fit and ensuring the seal lasts for a long time.
Professional vs. DIY Solutions
For a professional approach, contacting a parts house and specifying the year, model, and door required is recommended. This ensures a precise fit and quality of the replacement seal. On the other hand, if you prefer a DIY solution, there are many guides and tutorials online that can help you replace door seals step-by-step. However, be prepared for the possibility of a less precise fit, which might not last as long as a professionally installed one.
Conclusion
Understanding the terminology related to door seals and weatherstrips is crucial for both professional mechanics and car enthusiasts. Whether you’re replacing a seal due to wear and tear, or to address wind noise or water leakage, having the right information can make the process smoother. Always consult a professional if you are unsure or if you require a customized seal for your vehicle.
Remember, whether you call it a door seal, weatherstrip, windlace, windlacing, or aperture seal, the goal remains the same—to keep your vehicle safe, secure, and comfortable.