Questions and Answers

Chrysler Lebaron Taking On Water Q. Hi, I have a 1995 Chrysler Lebaron Convertible. It's a V-6, automatic transmission with 125,000 miles. My cruise control and the A/C don't work and I'm not sure about the other stuff. My problem is that my car seems to leak. We've ruled out the roof and the windows but somehow there is still a ton of water on the driver's side.

It gets so bad sometimes it will soak my jeans halfway up my calves from swishing. I pulled the plug things on the bottom but no water came out. I'm not sure what else to do or where to look.

Thanks!! Any help would be appreciated!
Bekki

A. One of the most common places for any car to leak water is the cowling just in front of the windshield where the fresh air intake is located and the windshield wiper assembly is nestled. Often the drain tubes become plugged and water that settles in the well in front of the windshield can cause rust which separates the joint sealant in this area.

You may have to remove the plastic grille covers and wiper arms to truly get access to this area. If nothing is revealed by a visual inspection you may want to make up some dyed water using some water soluble food coloring, or anything that won't stain the carpet.

Make up a solution of about one gallon using a color that will contrast with your interior so that you can trace the leak. Don't just pour the entire gallon in but rather a little at a time and observe under your dashboard to see where water maybe coming in.

Once you pinpoint the leak you should be able to seal it up with a flow-able windshield repair adhesive, found in most parts stores, or other suitable flowing adhesive.

The last one I did, I used Weldwood contact cement, which I actually poured into the area much like water would pour in. It found the leak for me and sealed it up after being allowed to dry overnight. I, of course, took great care not to pour it over my wiper arms, and other mechanical parts in the cowl area.

In addition, convertibles are notorious for leaking at the seals between the convertible top, windows and the body. Having someone spray the car with a hose while you sit inside with a flashlight will often reveal where a leak is.