Will a Gap in the Windshield Trim Cause Leakage?
3 Answers
A gap in the windshield trim will not cause leakage. Here are specific details about gaps in the windshield trim: 1. Function: In fact, car glass does not rely on the external glass trim for waterproofing; it depends on the sealant inside the glass. The external glass trim only serves a decorative purpose and helps delay the aging of the glass sealant. 2. Repair: After removing the trim, it is essential to clean out any dust, twigs, leaves, or other debris from the trim groove. Otherwise, the adhesive will not hold properly. You can find vehicle-specific trim at auto parts stores or online. During installation, apply a small amount of adhesive to the trim groove and then install the trim. If the trim has not aged, you can directly apply adhesive for reattachment.
I remember my car had an issue with gaps in the windshield weatherstrip. After a heavy rain, water suddenly leaked into the car, soaking the seats. The weatherstrip is made of rubber and is supposed to seal gaps against rainwater, but if it ages, shrinks, or isn’t installed properly, gaps can form. When the gaps are small, leaks might only happen during heavy rain or high-pressure car washes. But if the gaps are large, water can seep directly into the cabin, soaking the carpet or floor mats. The consequences can be serious—prolonged exposure can corrode the car’s metal frame, short-circuit electrical systems, or even lead to mold and bacteria growth in the interior. That time, I delayed repairs for a week, and rust and unpleasant odors started to appear. Eventually, I had to spend a lot at the shop to get the weatherstrip reinstalled properly. I recommend car owners regularly check their weatherstrips, especially for older cars over five years old, to prevent the problem from worsening. I’ve made it a habit to carefully inspect the edges of the weatherstrip during seasonal changes—if it feels loose or soft, I address it immediately to avoid unexpected leaks and costly repairs.
A gap in the windshield molding can indeed cause leaks. From my experience, no matter how small the gap is, rainwater will gradually seep into the car when splashed against it. The molding is usually fitted around the edge of the glass frame, acting like a seal. When driving or washing the car, water pressure and vibrations can widen the gap, making the leakage more noticeable. Last time, I had a leak in my car that dripped right under the steering wheel, nearly causing a short circuit. Fixing it isn't too hard: first, test the gap with a hose to confirm the leak. If confirmed, try cleaning dirt and debris from the molding or apply some temporary windshield adhesive as a filler. However, the best solution is to have a professional repair shop replace the molding—they can ensure precise installation. By the way, keeping the molding dry extends its lifespan; I always use a car cover when parked outdoors to protect it from rain.
