With the heavy rain we experienced yesterday, our lemon law firm was inundated, or better yet, flooded with calls from Pennsylvania and New Jersey consumers requesting free lemon law help for car water leaks. So we decided to address this possible lemon law condition.

For most people, heavy summer rain results in congested rush hour roadways and perhaps increased travel time. However, for some unlucky car owners, driving in heavy rain means having to deal with annoying water leaks. Rainwater dripping steadily down from the bottom of the dash and causing water damage to the carpet and underlying pad. The water leak is not only aggravating, but if allowed to persist, can turn into a hazardous mold condition.

At 1-800-MY-LEMON we have discovered that water leaks are usually caused by 2 problems..defective seals and/or defective drains.

1. Seals – Window seals and weatherstripping are designed to keep interior air in and the outside air out. A hissing or whistle condition is a sign that the seal or weatherstripping is damaged. Inspect the windows for missing or damaged seals. Specifically, lumps or other imperfections may be preventing a seal and letting water in. There are 2 ways to check if the seal is working properly:

a. Chalk – Rub chalk on the surface of the weather strip. When you close the door, chalk will transfer from the strip to the door on areas that are sealed properly.

b. Dollar – Place a dollar bill in between the door and the car. Shut the door and then try and pull the dollar out. If your car is properly sealed, you will not be able to pull the dollar out.

2. Drains – Cars are made to channel water to places that are designed as drains. You may not realize it, but water flows all over the inside of a car body. Water can run inside the C pillars, the inside of doors, and through the cowl vents. Therefore it is important that you inspect your car for debris that can block the drains. This is especially true in cowling shields.

Needless to say, it is very important to service your car for any leaks at the dealer. By following the above you may be able to isolate the auto water leak and inform the dealer as to the location. Should the dealer fail to repair the leak, you should contact a lemon law firm, such as 1-800-MY-LEMON (1-800-695-3666) to obtain a refund or new car under the Pennsylvania Lemon Law or New Jersey Lemon Law.