Hi All - I have an NGTF and every time I wash the car I end up with puddles of water in both foot wells. I think that the water is entering the engine compartment through the 'piano hinge' of the bonnet and then entering the foot wells through small gaps in the mounting of the heater unit.

Does anyone have any ideas how to cure the problem?

I thought of putting gaffer tape on the inside of the piano hinge but this won't last long because every time I open the bonnet and the hinge rotates it will disturb the tape.

I then thought about lining the mounting of the heater unit with some sort of 'bathroom silicon sealant' but am a bit concerned about how flammable this might be within the engine compartment.

Is there a cure or is it something I have to live with. Any answers gratefully accepted.

Regards

John D

Hi John

I'd say seal the heater unit with silicone, if you use clear you'll barely see it. I wouldn't worry about fire protection, it won't get that hot on the bulkhead, however if you are really concerned Screwfix do a Fire Retardant silicone at £6.99/tube.

The only problem is sealing right at the back of the heater, as access is a bit restrictive. Perhaps you shouldn't use so much water when you're washing the car!

Dave

Hi Dave
Thanks for the reply - I'll try the silicone round the heater box - a job for the winter months!

I thought about using less water and then my wife said - what about sending it to the Dry Cleaners!!

Am I right in thinking that this problem is not uncommon on the TF?

Regards

John D

I've never had the problem, but then I don't wash it more than a couple of times a year!
Dave