Water is leaking into the car… Mechanics can't figure out from where?

I’m having a problem with water leaking into my car. I’ve taken it to mechanics, but they can’t find where the leak is coming from. The car seems to get wet after rain. Any ideas on where to look?

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Does your car have a sunroof? If yes, it could be leaking from there. Check the drain holes. If there’s no sunroof, it might be a door seal issue. Try taking your car through a car wash or using a hose to check the seals.

@Sam
No sunroof. I’ll try the hose strategy when the temperature gets above 0°C.

Try starting low with the hose and move your way up. It could be a missing body plug in the fender well, door jam, or it could be higher up like a corner window or windshield. Keep checking as you go.

My first guess is that black plastic plug. I’ve seen rust, broken seals, or even trash/mud build-up around it. If that plug isn’t sealing properly, water could get in during rain. I’d remove and reseal it to check it off the list.

@Dev
That plug does look suspicious, but it’s mostly trash around it. Also, it was dry when I checked it earlier today.

Hollis said:
@Dev
That plug does look suspicious, but it’s mostly trash around it. Also, it was dry when I checked it earlier today.

That doesn’t change what I said. If it’s the cause, it could be intermittent. I’d still recommend removing it, inspecting it, resealing it, and replacing it. It’s a good idea to rule it out before looking at other possible causes.

@Dev
Got it. I’ll check it thoroughly. Thanks for the advice!

Possible causes: Sunroof, door or window seal, or a rust hole hidden behind a panel.

Could also be clogged drain lines from a sunroof or a leaking windshield.

Water’s definitely coming from the outside. Look at any spots where there’s drilling or cutting, like around antennas or roof racks. If you don’t find anything, check the seam sealer – it might have failed at some welded seams. Try spraying the car with a hose until you notice water coming in, then check the seams in that area.

Try puffing some talcum powder in the boot and follow the water trails. This can help track the leak.