Leaks and drips that get the interior of your vehicle wet are definitely an inconvenience. Sitting water promotes rust, bad smells, and can ruin your carpet. Furthermore, the water often seems to come from seemingly nowhere, adding to the frustration. From Westerville Automotive in Westerville, OH, here are some of the leading causes of water on your floor, and what you can do about it.
Weatherstripping - All it takes is a small perforation, wear, or movement of door or window weatherstripping to create a leak. Typically these are the easiest to track down - you’ll often see water dripping down the windows or doors, or from around the windshield. Depending on the nature of the leak, it may be something obvious you can fix yourself. If weatherstripping needs to be replaced completely, it more likely will take a professional to get it adhered and situated properly.
Gaskets - Gaskets under the dash that seal the car off from the outside world can also cause a leak. As the rubber ages, it sometimes shrinks or dry rots, letting water drip in from the cowl. Unfortunately, these gaskets aren’t typically visible or easy to access - a technician with the right skill and equipment is necessary for the job.
Rust - The cowl is the empty space under the vents you see in front of your windshield. Water and dirt have a tendency to collect there, and eventually, it begins to rust. Rust holes in the cowl often let water drain into the interior of your car. These repairs are difficult to make and also require a professional.
Blockage - Various drainage pathways are necessary to keep water from collecting, and spilling over into your vehicle’s interior. Rain tends to wash dirt and leaves into those passageways, and they become blocked over time. If you can locate them, a burst of compressed air or a blast from the garden hose will often free up the debris, allowing water to drain correctly, and preventing it from entering your vehicle. If that doesn’t work, there are often more in-depth measures necessary, that involve disassembly done by a technician. The AC also generates condensation that must be drained. If the drain for getting rid of that condensation becomes damaged or clogged, you’ll also notice water on the floor. While the previous issues are mostly noticeable during and after rain, an AC drainage issue will be most apparent while the AC is in use.
No matter your repair or maintenance needs, we’ve got you covered. For the best automotive, fleet, and diesel service shop in Westerville, OH, call or stop by Westerville Automotive today.
