How to Deal with Water Accumulation in the Rear of a Classic Focus?
3 Answers
Water entering the cabin can be drained by locating several rubber sealing plugs underneath the vehicle chassis and removing them to release the accumulated water. Remove detachable interior items such as floor mats and seat covers for drying and cleaning; less dirty carpets can be directly treated with a vacuum cleaner. It is recommended to wash seats and seat covers with bleach, and the absorbent cotton must be replaced to prevent bacterial growth. Ozone sterilization can also be performed.
Water accumulation in the rear seats is a fairly common issue in classic Ford Focus models, usually caused by aging door seals or clogged drainage holes in the rear wheel arches. I've personally dealt with this problem on several Focus cars. First, you need to remove the water by using a dry cloth or vacuum cleaner to dry the carpet. Then, inspect the rubber seals at the bottom of the doors—if you find any cracks, replace them immediately. If the drainage holes are blocked, use a small hook to clear out the mud and debris. After addressing these issues, it's advisable to regularly check the wear on the seals, especially before the rainy season. Applying a protective coating can save a lot of hassle. Remember, prolonged water accumulation can lead to mold spots and damage the interior, so early intervention is much better. If all else fails, take it to a repair shop for a thorough fix.
Having driven the classic Focus for so many years, I've encountered water accumulation in the rear seats several times. Generally, it's due to the aging of the car causing the sealing strips to become brittle or the drainage holes getting blocked by leaves and dust. First, I quickly dry the water to prevent the carpet from molding; then, I lift the rear door frame to check for any damage at the sealing strip joints. If I find a blocked hole, I simply clear it. To prevent future issues, I usually wipe the drainage areas when washing the car to keep them clear. Don't delay on this small matter—over time, the car's underbody can rust severely, affecting the entire body. After dealing with it, I also check the interior air to dissipate moisture and ensure comfort.
