My 1998 Renault Scenic leaks water into the front footwells. Not sure where its coming from

John, February 2009

2 possible causes, which I have had.

1 The body drainage holes are blocked so that the rainwater that runs down the windscreen cannot drain away and eventually enters the heater air intake. Remove the debris blocking the drain holes and check that water drains freely. If the drains are blocked a friend successfully used curtain wire to clear them.

This is a common problem on a lot of vehicles, irrespective of make or model. I have had it on my Scenic, my old Cavalier and on my wifes Saxo.

2 In the engine compartment on the passenger side there is a gromet on the bulkhead. On mine it had 'poped out' and rainwater was getting in. Cost me a fair few quid for a garage to find that for me. My symptom was the floor on the passenger side was wet but not the drivers side.

Hope this helps. Good luck

AcmeUK, February 2009

If it smells of antifreeze and your coolant level is going down then it will be your heater matrix.
If it is rainwater, (or melted snow), then check in the engine compartment in front of the bulkhead at each side. The drain holes may well be blocked with leaves etc. Clear them out and that should cure your problem.
Take the mats out and dry them thoroughly otherwise you'll get condensation in the car and your windows will mist up all the time.

Chicks Fan, February 2009