2021-2024 Jeep Wrangler / Gladiator Speaker BSR Noise TSB

Owners of 2021-2024 Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator vehicles may experience an annoying buzz, squeak, or rattle (BSR) emanating from the speaker sound bar. This issue, documented in STAR Online Publication S243000050, is typically most noticeable when the audio system is played at high volume levels, especially with music that has significant bass.

This manufacturer communication, released in December 2024, provides a diagnostic and repair procedure for technicians to address the Jeep Wrangler speaker BSR and Jeep Gladiator speaker BSR. The problem originates from the roof area where the speaker bar is located behind the front seats.

Symptoms

The primary symptom is a distinct buzz, squeak, or rattle noise coming from the speaker sound bar area. This noise is often triggered or exacerbated by:

• Playing music at high volume levels.
• Listening to music with heavy bass frequencies.

Diagnosis

To accurately diagnose and isolate the source of the Jeep Wrangler speaker BSR, technicians are advised to use the radio audio test tones available through the wiTECH diagnostic system. These test tones can be accessed via the Radio Actuator menu or the AMP (if equipped) System Test menu.

Once the test tones are active, applying upward pressure on the speaker sound bar can help pinpoint the exact location of the BSR. If the noise is isolated to the center of the sound bar, the repair outlined in this publication should be followed. If the noise originates from other areas of the sound bar, technicians should consult other relevant STAR Online Publications.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair for the Jeep Wrangler speaker BSR involves installing a custom-sized foam block to absorb vibrations within the speaker sound bar assembly. The general steps are as follows:

1. Prepare the Foam Block: A medium-density closed-cell foam, such as GASKA Tape V1500 or a similar product, is required. The foam block should measure 141mm (5.5 inches) long, 48mm (2 inches) wide, and 25mm (1 inch) thick. Thinner foam can be stacked to achieve the required 25mm height.
2. Remove the Sound Bar: Refer to Service Library 08 - Electrical / 8A - Audio/Video/Entertainment/Connectivity / ENCLOSURE, Speaker / Removal and Installation for the specific procedure to safely remove the speaker sound bar.
3. Clean the Installation Area: Thoroughly clean the area where the foam block will be installed using isopropyl alcohol and a lint-free towel. This ensures proper adhesion.
4. Install the Foam Block: Remove the adhesive tape strip from the foam block to expose the adhesive. Carefully place the foam block into the designated location within the sound bar enclosure.
5. Reinstall and Test: Reinstall the speaker sound bar. Perform the audio tone test again to confirm that the buzz, squeak, or rattle condition has been resolved or significantly improved.

Required Tools or Parts

• Medium density closed cell foam (e.g., GASKA Tape V1500 or similar).
• Isopropyl alcohol.
• Lint-free towel.
• wiTECH diagnostic system for audio test tones.

Important Warnings

It is important for owners and technicians to note that STAR Online Publication S2423000050 is a communication documenting past experiences and does not authorize warranty repairs. This document provides information on known issues and potential solutions but does not conclude what is definitively wrong with a vehicle. Technicians are responsible for determining the appropriate course of action.

Owner Action

If you are experiencing a buzz, squeak, or rattle from your 2021-2024 Jeep Wrangler or Gladiator's speaker sound bar, especially at high volumes, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with your authorized Jeep dealership. Inform them about the specific noise and refer to STAR Online Publication S2423000050. The dealership technician can then perform the diagnostic and repair procedure to address the issue.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 11011505