Floor Pan Testing

Soaked carpeting is a common result of body leaks. It's not unusual to find water getting in through the floor pan. However, it is also possible for water to enter higher up and run downward to soak the carpet.

Since a soaked carpet should be removed for drying, it is a good way to start your check. Of course, carpeting removal means you will have to remove door sill plates, and pull out seats and cushions. Refer to the appropriate service manual for removal and installation. This gives you a clear field for action so that you can check body seam sealing and the floor pan plugs in the floor pan.

It's usually not practical to water test for floor pan or wheelhouse leaks unless a special underbody water spray arrangement is available. As an alternative, the best way to locate these leak points it is look for rusty seam edges of other traces of leaks after carpet removal. Traces of mud are an indication that the water is coming in from below.