R50/53 Help! Water pouring in through "A" pillar!
Thread Starter
|
6th Gear
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 1,444
Likes: 0
Heavy rain today. As my wife brought the MINI home she noticed water pouring in.
She checked the windows, sunroof, etc.
When I looked, the water was coming out behind the passenger "A: pillar and pouring out (BIG quanitity) on the door ahead of the speaker.
The glove bopx is fine, and from what I can see, the windshield and frame is intact.
It's not the fresh air vents, too low. It's raining real hard and dark, so all I can do is keep a bunch of towels in there till the AM.
Never heard of this cute trick before. Anyone else?
Regards,
Red
She checked the windows, sunroof, etc.
When I looked, the water was coming out behind the passenger "A: pillar and pouring out (BIG quanitity) on the door ahead of the speaker.
The glove bopx is fine, and from what I can see, the windshield and frame is intact.
It's not the fresh air vents, too low. It's raining real hard and dark, so all I can do is keep a bunch of towels in there till the AM.
Never heard of this cute trick before. Anyone else?
Regards,
Red
Thread Starter
|
6th Gear
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 1,444
Likes: 0
Just pulled the antenna and threw my convertible's car cover over it
Guess this never happened to anyone else,
This car is beginning to lose it's appeal. Just like my 60's British cars. Interior bits problems, Electrical issues, fluid leaks, rattles now water gushing in.
Afraid to turn 6,000 miles.
Regards,
Red
Guess this never happened to anyone else,
This car is beginning to lose it's appeal. Just like my 60's British cars. Interior bits problems, Electrical issues, fluid leaks, rattles now water gushing in.
Afraid to turn 6,000 miles.
Regards,
Red
Moderator :: Performance Mods
Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 5,427
Likes: 6
From: A Den in Maryland
I didnt have this problem with the MINI, but had it with a Dodge Shadow with a sunroof, and it's a simple fix. The drain tube that is responsible for draining away the water that collects in the area under the glass is loose or not connected to the sunroof lower frame. The water that is supposed to be drained by this hose along the a pillar and outside the cowling is draining instead onto the headliner and subsequently inside the car. Think of it like a downspout disconnected from a house's rain gutter.
On rare occasions of excessive dirt and crud buildup in the 'gutter' area under the sunroof glass panel this dirt can block the drain holes and cause the gutter to overflow into the car. Being that your car cant be more than a couple years old, this is unlikely.
Fixing this (if it's not blocked as above) involves lowering the headliner and checking the condition of the drain tube(s).
On rare occasions of excessive dirt and crud buildup in the 'gutter' area under the sunroof glass panel this dirt can block the drain holes and cause the gutter to overflow into the car. Being that your car cant be more than a couple years old, this is unlikely.
Fixing this (if it's not blocked as above) involves lowering the headliner and checking the condition of the drain tube(s).
Thread Starter
|
6th Gear
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 1,444
Likes: 0
>>I didnt have this problem with the MINI, but had it with a Dodge Shadow with a sunroof, and it's a simple fix. The drain tube that is responsible for draining away the water that collects in the area under the glass is loose or not connected to the sunroof lower frame. The water that is supposed to be drained by this hose along the a pillar and outside the cowling is draining instead onto the headliner and subsequently inside the car. Think of it like a downspout disconnected from a house's rain gutter.
>>
>>On rare occasions of excessive dirt and crud buildup in the 'gutter' area under the sunroof glass panel this dirt can block the drain holes and cause the gutter to overflow into the car. Being that your car cant be more than a couple years old, this is unlikely.
>>
>>Fixing this (if it's not blocked as above) involves lowering the headliner and checking the condition of the drain tube(s).
Thank you. I guess that is a job for the dealer. As you can tell, I am starting to have a love/"concern" realtionshi p with this car!
Regards,
Red
>>
>>On rare occasions of excessive dirt and crud buildup in the 'gutter' area under the sunroof glass panel this dirt can block the drain holes and cause the gutter to overflow into the car. Being that your car cant be more than a couple years old, this is unlikely.
>>
>>Fixing this (if it's not blocked as above) involves lowering the headliner and checking the condition of the drain tube(s).
Thank you. I guess that is a job for the dealer. As you can tell, I am starting to have a love/"concern" realtionshi p with this car!
Regards,
Red
6th Gear
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 1,118
Likes: 1
This should definitely be covered by the warranty. Make sure they replace any damaged interior items like the headliner, leather seats, etc.
With that much water entering the car, I would also be concerned about mildew and rust issues. If it was my car, I would insist that the carpeting also be replaced.
Hopefully the dealer will take care of the matter without a fuss (unless you're in SoCal - then you're screwed...). If not, you probably have a valid insurance claim.
With that much water entering the car, I would also be concerned about mildew and rust issues. If it was my car, I would insist that the carpeting also be replaced.
Hopefully the dealer will take care of the matter without a fuss (unless you're in SoCal - then you're screwed...). If not, you probably have a valid insurance claim.
Oh my Red, this is not good to hear! Best wishes having your dealer sort out the problem - keep us posted what you find out, too.
Thread Starter
|
6th Gear
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 1,444
Likes: 0
The dealer is picking it up next Wednesday; his first opening. He won't say much about ever hearing of this sort of thing. When it rains, it will be parked with a cover.
I agree with 911fan, I want carpets replaced and assurances that my airbag is going to work And even after all of that, this little baby is gone before the 3 year part of the warranty is over.
Thank you all for your input, I really appreciate it.
Regards,
Red
I agree with 911fan, I want carpets replaced and assurances that my airbag is going to work And even after all of that, this little baby is gone before the 3 year part of the warranty is over.
Thank you all for your input, I really appreciate it.
Regards,
Red
Trending Topics
3rd Gear
Joined: Jul 2002
Posts: 222
Likes: 0
I'm with MINI USA. We are so sorry to read about this problem with your MINI and we'd really like the opportunity to assist you. Would you please contact us at 866 ASK .MINI and provide us with your name and Vehicle Identification Number. Mention Reference # 200403600712 so that we can help you more efficiently. We're here to help.
Thread Starter
|
6th Gear
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 1,444
Likes: 0
The response above from MINI USA proves they are a class act.
They have opened a file and will call the dealer before my car gets there; and follow up with me when a diagnosis is made.
Meanwhile, rain and snow is expected, so it is wrapped uyp again in my Caddy cover!
Regards,
Red
They have opened a file and will call the dealer before my car gets there; and follow up with me when a diagnosis is made.
Meanwhile, rain and snow is expected, so it is wrapped uyp again in my Caddy cover!
Regards,
Red
6th Gear
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 1,118
Likes: 1
"The response above from MINI USA proves they are a class act."
Hopefully you will have better luck with MINI USA than I've had.
In my experience, they are little more than a feel-good component of the "Let's Motor" marketing campaign. They are more concerned with keeping their dealer network happy than with resolving customer problems. I have dealt with them on some issues and, after feigning concern and going through the motions, they provided absolutely no assistance.
Customer service is not one of BMW's strong suits.
Hopefully you will have better luck with MINI USA than I've had.
In my experience, they are little more than a feel-good component of the "Let's Motor" marketing campaign. They are more concerned with keeping their dealer network happy than with resolving customer problems. I have dealt with them on some issues and, after feigning concern and going through the motions, they provided absolutely no assistance.
Customer service is not one of BMW's strong suits.
Thread Starter
|
6th Gear
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 1,444
Likes: 0
>>"The response above from MINI USA proves they are a class act."
>>
>>Hopefully you will have better luck with MINI USA than I've had.
>>
>>In my experience, they are little more than a feel-good component of the "Let's Motor" marketing campaign. They are more concerned with keeping their dealer network happy than with resolving customer problems. I have dealt with them on some issues and, after feigning concern and going through the motions, they provided absolutely no assistance.
>>
>>Customer service is not one of BMW's strong suits.
Oh Boy! Hope this all works out. Will keep you posted.
Regards,
Red
>>
>>Hopefully you will have better luck with MINI USA than I've had.
>>
>>In my experience, they are little more than a feel-good component of the "Let's Motor" marketing campaign. They are more concerned with keeping their dealer network happy than with resolving customer problems. I have dealt with them on some issues and, after feigning concern and going through the motions, they provided absolutely no assistance.
>>
>>Customer service is not one of BMW's strong suits.
Oh Boy! Hope this all works out. Will keep you posted.
Regards,
Red
Thread Starter
|
6th Gear
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 1,444
Likes: 0
>>I didnt have this problem with the MINI, but had it with a Dodge Shadow with a sunroof, and it's a simple fix. The drain tube that is responsible for draining away the water that collects in the area under the glass is loose or not connected to the sunroof lower frame. The water that is supposed to be drained by this hose along the a pillar and outside the cowling is draining instead onto the headliner and subsequently inside the car. Think of it like a downspout disconnected from a house's rain gutter.
>>Fixing this (if it's not blocked as above) involves lowering the headliner and checking the condition of the drain tube(s).
Great Bear is correct. It was warm enough today to run a hose and see that the little drain in the front of the sunroof channel now leads directly INTO the car instead of the cowl.
I realize no one has this issue currently, but will continue to post the "Wake of the Flood" adventures for those who do a search in the future.
Regards,
Red
>>Fixing this (if it's not blocked as above) involves lowering the headliner and checking the condition of the drain tube(s).
Great Bear is correct. It was warm enough today to run a hose and see that the little drain in the front of the sunroof channel now leads directly INTO the car instead of the cowl.
I realize no one has this issue currently, but will continue to post the "Wake of the Flood" adventures for those who do a search in the future.
Regards,
Red
MINI:
My MCS is a year old this month and water drips through my clock and from bottom of rear view mirror. It has done this 3 times since I've owned it. My MA said it was the way I parked !?!? I usually park flat. Do you have any suggestions as it dripped on me the whole way home today? Drain tubes? Something I can fix myself?
thanks
Scott
My MCS is a year old this month and water drips through my clock and from bottom of rear view mirror. It has done this 3 times since I've owned it. My MA said it was the way I parked !?!? I usually park flat. Do you have any suggestions as it dripped on me the whole way home today? Drain tubes? Something I can fix myself?
thanks
Scott
6th Gear
Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 1,147
Likes: 0
From: New Hampshire
>>My MA said it was the way I parked !?!?
You gotta be freakin kidding me! You "parked it wrong"? I must have missed the chapter in the manual that explains how to prevent leaks by parking correctly.
My advice: demand to talk to the general manager and tell him EXACTLY what that MA said and how ridiculous and insulting it is. Then tell him that while the drain tubes are being reconnected, you want the roof and headliner inspected and any water damaged items replaced.
Unbelievable.
You gotta be freakin kidding me! You "parked it wrong"? I must have missed the chapter in the manual that explains how to prevent leaks by parking correctly.
My advice: demand to talk to the general manager and tell him EXACTLY what that MA said and how ridiculous and insulting it is. Then tell him that while the drain tubes are being reconnected, you want the roof and headliner inspected and any water damaged items replaced.
Unbelievable.
Coordinator :: Alabama Motoring Society & South East
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 10,170
Likes: 2
From: Burning-Ham Alabama
Unless you park it upside down, this is about the most ridiculous excuse I have ever heard from a dealership trying to avoid fixing a problem
Chances are that the molding above your windshield is leaking. Some people have even had them fly off on the highway, so that would be a good thing to check first.
Chances are that the molding above your windshield is leaking. Some people have even had them fly off on the highway, so that would be a good thing to check first.
6th Gear
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 1,627
Likes: 1
From: Neenah, WI
>>Unless you park it upside down, this is about the most ridiculous excuse I have ever heard from a dealership trying to avoid fixing a problem
Although, if he parked it upside down, he still shouldn't be getting water coming in through the rear view mirror. :evil:
What a totally ridiculous response from the dealer. I think I would have come completely unhinged if I had been there when they said that. This is so bad, IMHO this guy should be named and publicly humiliated for the complete lack of respect he showed you.
Although, if he parked it upside down, he still shouldn't be getting water coming in through the rear view mirror. :evil:
What a totally ridiculous response from the dealer. I think I would have come completely unhinged if I had been there when they said that. This is so bad, IMHO this guy should be named and publicly humiliated for the complete lack of respect he showed you.
6th Gear
Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 1,147
Likes: 0
From: New Hampshire
>>Chances are that the molding above your windshield is leaking. Some people have even had them fly off on the highway, so that would be a good thing to check first.
That molding isn't there to seal out rain - it's for decorative trim and wind noise reduction. When mine got loose it was raining and my Service Manager told me nothing would leak to the inside - the windshield adhesive seals everything out.
That molding isn't there to seal out rain - it's for decorative trim and wind noise reduction. When mine got loose it was raining and my Service Manager told me nothing would leak to the inside - the windshield adhesive seals everything out.
6th Gear
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 7,062
Likes: 1
From: Boston, MA
>>What a totally ridiculous response from the dealer. I think I would have come completely unhinged if I had been there when they said that. This is so bad, IMHO this guy should be named and publicly humiliated for the complete lack of respect he showed you. <<
I agree 100%. This person should be fired and put in stockades in the village square. And publicly humiliated on NAM.
>>"The response above from MINI USA proves they are a class act."<<
Actually, no it doesn't. It shows that you were fortunate enough to have a problem just serious enough to attract attention (i.e. bad publicity) here, but not quite serious enough (like, say, a flimsy windshield or a faulty 5-speed transmission) to get the "deafening silence" response from MINI. They are anything but a class act, and in fact they're a shameful example of how NOT to foster a satisfied customer base.
_________________
"In all matters of opinion, our adversaries are insane." -Oscar Wilde
<<I agree 100%. This person should be fired and put in stockades in the village square. And publicly humiliated on NAM.
>>"The response above from MINI USA proves they are a class act."<<
Actually, no it doesn't. It shows that you were fortunate enough to have a problem just serious enough to attract attention (i.e. bad publicity) here, but not quite serious enough (like, say, a flimsy windshield or a faulty 5-speed transmission) to get the "deafening silence" response from MINI. They are anything but a class act, and in fact they're a shameful example of how NOT to foster a satisfied customer base.
_________________
"In all matters of opinion, our adversaries are insane." -Oscar Wilde
>>MINI:
>>
>>My MCS is a year old this month and water drips through my clock and from bottom of rear view mirror. It has done this 3 times since I've owned it. My MA said it was the way I parked !?!? I usually park flat. Do you have any suggestions as it dripped on me the whole way home today? Drain tubes? Something I can fix myself?
>>
>>thanks
>>Scott
Thanks for your comments. Today, I parked in the opposite direction...still looked 'flat' to me...and it rained, sleeted, hailed, and snowed. Not a drop. But, like I said, it's only happened three times. I had the windshield molding strip come loose some weeks ago...but that was due to an 'apparent' mis-installation by my windshield guy when he replaced the windshield (rock chip incident on the interstate). I applied a really great adhesive that also serves as a water-proof/repellant type sealer....I really don't think water is getting in through there. From your comments, I have a 'sense' that it has to do with the drain tubes. If I knew what I was looking for, I'd find the #$%#$%#s myself to inspect. If y'all know where I can find them, please PM me. Otherwise, I've got another 4,000+ miles before my next oil change at the dealer.
I agree that the response about parking was lame. I was in a fairly mellow mood when Marianne (Cincinnati MINI) told me to park in an uphill direction, if I could. AND, that unless they found a leak after spraying it with water, there was nothing they could do. But, like I said, this is only the third time this has happened...so, it must be something kinda freakish with (apparently) the drain tubes. hummm..... :smile:
>>
>>My MCS is a year old this month and water drips through my clock and from bottom of rear view mirror. It has done this 3 times since I've owned it. My MA said it was the way I parked !?!? I usually park flat. Do you have any suggestions as it dripped on me the whole way home today? Drain tubes? Something I can fix myself?
>>
>>thanks
>>Scott
Thanks for your comments. Today, I parked in the opposite direction...still looked 'flat' to me...and it rained, sleeted, hailed, and snowed. Not a drop. But, like I said, it's only happened three times. I had the windshield molding strip come loose some weeks ago...but that was due to an 'apparent' mis-installation by my windshield guy when he replaced the windshield (rock chip incident on the interstate). I applied a really great adhesive that also serves as a water-proof/repellant type sealer....I really don't think water is getting in through there. From your comments, I have a 'sense' that it has to do with the drain tubes. If I knew what I was looking for, I'd find the #$%#$%#s myself to inspect. If y'all know where I can find them, please PM me. Otherwise, I've got another 4,000+ miles before my next oil change at the dealer.
I agree that the response about parking was lame. I was in a fairly mellow mood when Marianne (Cincinnati MINI) told me to park in an uphill direction, if I could. AND, that unless they found a leak after spraying it with water, there was nothing they could do. But, like I said, this is only the third time this has happened...so, it must be something kinda freakish with (apparently) the drain tubes. hummm..... :smile:
>>>>MINI:
>>>>
>>>>My MCS is a year old this month and water drips through my clock and from bottom of rear view mirror. It has done this 3 times since I've owned it. My MA said it was the way I parked !?!? I usually park flat. Do you have any suggestions as it dripped on me the whole way home today? Drain tubes? Something I can fix myself?
>>>>
>>>>thanks
>>>>Scott
>>
>>Thanks for your comments. Today, I parked in the opposite direction...still looked 'flat' to me...and it rained, sleeted, hailed, and snowed. Not a drop. But, like I said, it's only happened three times. I had the windshield molding strip come loose some weeks ago...but that was due to an 'apparent' mis-installation by my windshield guy when he replaced the windshield (rock chip incident on the interstate). I applied a really great adhesive that also serves as a water-proof/repellant type sealer....I really don't think water is getting in through there. From your comments, I have a 'sense' that it has to do with the drain tubes. If I knew what I was looking for, I'd find the #$%#$%#s myself to inspect. If y'all know where I can find them, please PM me. Otherwise, I've got another 4,000+ miles before my next oil change at the dealer.
>>
>>I agree that the response about parking was lame. I was in a fairly mellow mood when Marianne (Cincinnati MINI) told me to park in an uphill direction, if I could. AND, that unless they found a leak after spraying it with water, there was nothing they could do. But, like I said, this is only the third time this has happened...so, it must be something kinda freakish with (apparently) the drain tubes. hummm..... :smile:
So...now...I get the leak EVERY time it rains, while sitting still. I phoned MINI Division, explained this to the Customer Service guy, and he said, "That sounds like a really inappropriate response you got. I want to phone the dealership and I'll call you right back!" Within about 10 minutes, one of the dealer's managers phoned me, inviting me to drop my car off for service at my convenience (it'll be this Saturday), to leave it for the week, and what kind of loaner would I like? Since I'm married and have to kinda, well, 'listen' to her, I requested a 500 series BMW (they don't loan the 700 series out). So, Saturday, I'll have a Beemer for a week. I felt taken care of!!!
>>>>
>>>>My MCS is a year old this month and water drips through my clock and from bottom of rear view mirror. It has done this 3 times since I've owned it. My MA said it was the way I parked !?!? I usually park flat. Do you have any suggestions as it dripped on me the whole way home today? Drain tubes? Something I can fix myself?
>>>>
>>>>thanks
>>>>Scott
>>
>>Thanks for your comments. Today, I parked in the opposite direction...still looked 'flat' to me...and it rained, sleeted, hailed, and snowed. Not a drop. But, like I said, it's only happened three times. I had the windshield molding strip come loose some weeks ago...but that was due to an 'apparent' mis-installation by my windshield guy when he replaced the windshield (rock chip incident on the interstate). I applied a really great adhesive that also serves as a water-proof/repellant type sealer....I really don't think water is getting in through there. From your comments, I have a 'sense' that it has to do with the drain tubes. If I knew what I was looking for, I'd find the #$%#$%#s myself to inspect. If y'all know where I can find them, please PM me. Otherwise, I've got another 4,000+ miles before my next oil change at the dealer.
>>
>>I agree that the response about parking was lame. I was in a fairly mellow mood when Marianne (Cincinnati MINI) told me to park in an uphill direction, if I could. AND, that unless they found a leak after spraying it with water, there was nothing they could do. But, like I said, this is only the third time this has happened...so, it must be something kinda freakish with (apparently) the drain tubes. hummm..... :smile:
So...now...I get the leak EVERY time it rains, while sitting still. I phoned MINI Division, explained this to the Customer Service guy, and he said, "That sounds like a really inappropriate response you got. I want to phone the dealership and I'll call you right back!" Within about 10 minutes, one of the dealer's managers phoned me, inviting me to drop my car off for service at my convenience (it'll be this Saturday), to leave it for the week, and what kind of loaner would I like? Since I'm married and have to kinda, well, 'listen' to her, I requested a 500 series BMW (they don't loan the 700 series out). So, Saturday, I'll have a Beemer for a week. I felt taken care of!!!
Thread Starter
|
6th Gear
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 1,444
Likes: 0
I checked mine with a hose, going higher and higher until I got the water coming in.
It has not leaked since they re attached the hose. Good luck,and let us know how you made out.
And sorry to those who have posted about bad relations with MINI. I have had a number of issues with this car, and they took care of it.
I always wondered about the "flimsy" windshields. Was there a bad run of them? I have an 03 and it still is fine.
(My 03 company car went through three in one month! I thought it was bad luck).
Regards,
Red
_________________
Life is better MINImized CWFAC 03
It has not leaked since they re attached the hose. Good luck,and let us know how you made out.
And sorry to those who have posted about bad relations with MINI. I have had a number of issues with this car, and they took care of it.
I always wondered about the "flimsy" windshields. Was there a bad run of them? I have an 03 and it still is fine.
(My 03 company car went through three in one month! I thought it was bad luck).
Regards,
Red
_________________
Life is better MINImized CWFAC 03
2nd Gear
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 125
Likes: 7
From: PA
The blocked sunroof drain tube seems to be pretty common. I had a leak from the first day I drove her home from the dealer. They dropped the headliner and cleaned the drain tube and I've had no problem since.
2nd Gear
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 76
Likes: 0
From: Greensburg, PA
Originally Posted by cooperSharon
The blocked sunroof drain tube seems to be pretty common. I had a leak from the first day I drove her home from the dealer. They dropped the headliner and cleaned the drain tube and I've had no problem since.
I've had a couple minor problems with my Mini, hopefully they are just little bugs and will all be worked out before the warranty ends.
I'm just worried about all the water that got in. My floor on that side was a pool. I removed the floor mats and soaked it up with a towel. It was still damp though. I'm a little nervous about using the heated seat on that side.
The Pittsburgh dealer is pretty awesome though, so I'm sure they'll fix me up.