How to Fix a Common Interior Leak on a 2003-2007 Honda Accord

Check out this updated video on how to fix the leak: • How to Fix a Common In...
In this video, I show how I diagnosed and fixed a leak in the interior of my 2004 Honda Accord Coupe. Since fixing it, I've had minimal leaking issues. It was leaking every time there was a heavy rain, and it was starting to stain the headliner and airbag. I know this video may not be the best at showing how to remove the trim piece, but I'm willing to answer any questions you may have.
Buy the windshield gasket: amzn.to/2CNY0pq
Buy a new door seal: Right: amzn.to/2VrbM8q
Left: amzn.to/2F4M302

[@rossitherhodie5659]

Thanks just what I needed to fix my leak in same place. starting today. Hopefully not too much rust, but have anti rust paste if there is. Good clean up, appl;y anti rust in places where needed and then follow your way with RTV cilicone. Beats paying someone to try and remove windscreen, then fix and replace glass at one heck of a risk of breaking glass and also costs a heap more.

[@luzp7159]

THANK YOU! YOU HELPED ME!!!! Honda Civic Coupe 2008: Mine was not rusted but it did have a few cracks right in the corner where the roof connects to the bottom of the car, BARELY VISIBLE but seemed to be causing the leaks, just like yours. I bought Permatex Black Silicone RTV Adhesive Sealant at Walmart $3.94 (used 2) since I did preventive measures and did all 4 corners of the top. Buy 2 if you are a perfectionist like me. It did work, no leaking!

[@AJSWoodworks]

No problem!

[@MelhensonVside]

Thank you for sharing this video, it helps me fixing may leaking problem. Thumb up bro👍🏾

[@Saulgr]

I have the same issue, thanks for the video, this will be my next proyect

[@lindagolden9892]

I’ve a 2006 Honda Pilot that has a similar water leak. Got up on a ladder and noticed a wide rubber like seal running front to back. Just above the driver’s door it appears loose but I’m not comfortable fussing with it. I’ll need to run by shop for local mechanic to clean beneath and secure it back in place. Already had the sunroof drain lines air blown out for any debris. I’ll have to question why they didn’t notice this seal being loose as I paid $60 for their service just prior to Hurricane Elsa here in Florida. Do appreciate your video as it caused me to climb up my ladder to take a look see. I’m a 69 yr old woman not comfortable trying to do mechanic issues. 🚙

[@haidarcobra4775]

Thank you so much 😊 exactly the same problem I have in the same corner coming a lot of water 💦 inside the car when it’s raining 🌧 now I know how to fix it thanks 🙏🏼 for help👍🏼

[@switmacaroons]

Watching your video .. same problem leaking inside . Thank you for sharing .. i will try this . Diy . Thanks

[@larrystewart3492]

Thanks for the video. Before I start this project I am going to buy all the plastic snaps from the dealership. The original snaps are old and brittle and wont take much too break.

[@AJSWoodworks]

Larry Stewart Be sure to check your sunroof drain too if you have one. But good idea, they snap easily.

[@nycyclist4154]

Thanks for that info dude. To clean your interior use magic eraser dry, it may help. The eraser may shred a bit but no damage or discoloration will occur.

[@jinsestephen]

Thank you for sharing the video

[@gerarldsvv]

Thanks man, I noticed the same thing in my car.

[@Jez2008UK]

Wow, that is sooooooooooo helpful, thank you so much! PS - where the strip runs down the side of the windshield, mine has a gap between that strip and the glass (i.e. you can see a gap when you look from the other side of the vehicle). Is that normal? Or should it be completely flush with the glass and no gap at all?

[@Busabangin]

Thanks for the awesome video..I greatly appreciate it..

[@rebekahgracebarnes4053]

omg thank you! Im getting my windshield replaced! And get front molding replaced but I bet this is the issue!!

[@AJSWoodworks]

Rebekah Grace Barnes No problem! Also, it would be a good idea to check the channel that runs along your roof. If the windshield doesn’t fix the issue, you may need to buy some automotive body sealer and spread it in the roof channel near the windshield.

[@omarhouri5435]

Did you solve the issue? Your response is highly appreciated as I'm facing the same problem now

[@kevinperlow4595]

I brought mine to Honda (it's a 2010) I usually don't but needed the work to be done quick. A couple weeks later and there's more condensation. Bringing it back for warranty fix but otherwise unsure of what to do.

[@jeremyrichards1085]

I had a similar leak, watched this video this morning, ascertained that the leak was coming from somewhere under the trim and went ahead and fixed it. A build up of dirt under the trim around the plastic snaps was creating a pool of water just above the windscreen and causing water to leak into the cabin. Thanks muchly for your video.

[@glasser2819]

was the water point of entry from the roof area OR the windshield surround seal?

[@jeremyrichards1085]

Water was being diverted from the trim across the roof in the channel directly above the windscreen.

[@benlipton6753]

Honda tech here... 1) I think it's the seam sealer cracking which is the source of your water penetration. Look closely (at the top corner of the windshield where it transitions from the roof) at the flattened caulking-like material for hairline cracks. The first gen Honda Jazz/Fit had this issue prematurely. Search for "automotive seam sealer repair replacement" and you'll find many body shop and a few DIY videos. 2) the "gasket" poking out is actually a small amount of excess urethane adhesive which is used to secure the glass to the metal body of the car. It is not an issue unless the factory or replacement window tech used too little and the weather tight seal was compromised.

[@AJSWoodworks]

Ben Lipton I recently found the tsb for this issue, and saw that it is the roof channel area as you described. Apparently, it’s an issue with the civic as well.

[@glasser2819]

@@AJSWoodworks so you're saying the leak is from the ROOF SEAMS cracking and not from the windshield side seals getting UV dammaged, right?? ✌️

[@AJSWoodworks]

@@glasser2819 That’s correct. Checkout my most recent video on how to fix it. It’s a much better way to do it.

[@davenstorm7271]

@@AJSWoodworks Bro van you post a link to that new video you did I can't find it!

[@AJSWoodworks]

@@davenstorm7271 The link is in the description below the video.

[@glazeddonut9494]

Thanks. I have this problem on my 2010.

[@nostradamus9608]

I've a similarly looking issue in my Toyota Matrix. I was told I'd have to take it to auto glass shop to remove and reseal windshield. Any idea how can I check where exactly it is leaking, on a side rail, or under the windshield seal? Thanks.

[@josevega1624]

Yes thank you for helping me I didn't think it was the song roof but it was all on that scene like crack right near the windshield and I saw it in your picture in your picture and that's what the leak was buzz all fixed all good now all good now I just gotta replace the seat cover because it cracked up and split my scene And I'd think the dealer knew about it but they wanted to charge about a $150 hours per hour justifying the leak which they probably already knew thank you this would help somebody else

[@kingkoopur9212]

Just found my cause for the leak that created a wet stain that looks exactly like the one in this video.i checked the trim , sealants around windows and water drain.my issue was misaligned blk triangular parts u can see em when u retract you sunroof..the are attached to that long blk part .the triangular part has a screw hole and little part that fits into the hole of the blk metal housing of the sun roof .remove the headliner pour water near drain and triangular part

[@C0R0NAH]

Hello there, do you have any chance to find me out what is the oem number of the plastic clips for window trim? Previous owner of my car glued them up. Many thanks, meanwhile searching for it.

[@kingkoopur9212]

Never thought about looking under the trim

[@TheFailure777]

THANK YOU!

[@michaelolson571]

I'm wondering if I'm getting wind noise from this area.

[@nighthawkj30A4]

There is also TSB on it and i have the same car. Instead of taking apart the interior trim parts and Headliner. Think ill just do it like this it save me many hrs. But the TSB honda says to do is remove. A pillar B C pillars trims and part of the side panel. And head liner then mix soap solution. And apply on the outside and spray compressed air from inside.

[@benlipton6753]

This^^^^

[@greenpea9412]

I have an 2003 Accord that is leaking more to the center of the windshield. On the front corners of the sun roof there are drain holes. Sometimes debris gets down in there and they get clogged so water rest in the sunroof and finds its way to areas that end up leaking. The best way to clear those drain holes is to take weed eater trimmer line and run it down those tubes. If your leak isn't fixed with what you did here, maybe try that and see if their clogged. I do think based on what you showed here you found the leak.

[@AJSWoodworks]

Greenpea Yeah, I checked the drains first, but they were fine. I definitely fixed the leak; we’ve had heavy rain multiple times, and no water at all gets in anymore.

[@greenpea9412]

Excellent. @@AJSWoodworks

[@glasser2819]

@@AJSWoodworks so where was your leak: - cracked roof seams or - windshield seals It's simple yet fairly confusing to identify... ✌️

[@AJSWoodworks]

@@glasser2819 cracked roof seams!

[@Steve9273]

Did anyone have a issue like this a few years after having their windshield replaced? I had mine replaced about 7 years ago, now water coming in both sides like the video. The company said they would fix it if it was their work, but would charge it it wasn't.

[@loubino18]

Did that fix your issue? Great video, appreciate your efforts to share! :)

[@AJSWoodworks]

It did for a while. Check out my newer video which worked a little better

[@loganbschaefer]

what website and what product number can you find the weather strip?

[@AJSWoodworks]

I added a link to buy a new windshield gasket and door seals in the video description. I assume you mean the door seals? The product numbers are included in the listings.

[@clinteastwood666]

How to you remove the trim?

[@wildman4525]

Do you think jb weld would work having the same problem

[@AJSWoodworks]

dana martin You could give it a try. Just make sure the surfaces are clean.

[@izzycamaro]

Thanks for the nice video. On your last reply you said, I definitely fixed the leak; What did you finally use to seal the leak?.

[@AJSWoodworks]

I used epoxy to fix it. You have to use something extremely tough, but also flexible and weatherproof.

[@thronewalker1153]

I would highly highly recommend black urethane. It has amazing weatherproofing and it literally lasts forever. From the Honda factory the window shields are sealed with black urethane. It’s very easy to apply. Buy a tube anywhere. Pop it in caulk gun. Cut the tip off and you are good to go.

[@mrau92me]

Thanks for taking the time to shoot this video. My wife's 2007 Accord isn't leaking there (yet), but we are getting water at the backseat, passenger side headliner area where the side air bag label is. Your video will help me take that long trim piece off, hopefully without breaking it. Regarding that long piece along the roof that you put back in, do you think it acts as a weather seal, or is it just for looks? In our case, I'm thinking the water could be getting in through one of several things (the back window seal, sunroof, or backdoor seals). I need to do something. It's going to ruin our brand new head liner.

[@AJSWoodworks]

mrau92me I don’t think it’s a weather seal, I think it’s probably just for looks and to fill the gap between the roof and door. I would definitely check all of the seals around that area.

[@benlipton6753]

Honda tech here... Again I'd look closely at the seam sealer it the top rear corner of the roof under the trim piece that runs to front of the car. I also had leaks matching your description.

[@mrau92me]

@@benlipton6753 Thanks for the tip. So, how would you repair it? Does the old seam sealer need to be cleaned out first, or is simply applying sealer over the old sealer sufficient?

[@glasser2819]

@@benlipton6753 this leak being at the rear... rules out windshield seals, so we are clearly left with the roof sheet metal seams channeling water inside and pilar coverings acting as gutters 👏🏻

[@glasser2819]

@@mrau92me whatever sealer used it must flex to allow for slight motion between roof and body sheet metal pannels (nothing hard like an epoxy)... RTV sealant 👍

[@300zxdriver]

How did you remove that weather strip without breaking those clips? Do didn’t say how you got it off.

[@AJSWoodworks]

300zxdriver I used a flathead screwdriver to pop the tabs in before I tried to pull the trim off. Gently though, because they can break when they get pushed in too.

[@juliopena21]

Im having the same fucking thing on my 2005 accord.. I replaced the windshield thinking it was the seals . But today I saw water coming in again on both side.. same location as you .. tomorrow in buying black silicon weather proof freeze proof . And pack the shit out of it.

[@isaacsanchez5159]

Im having an issue with a 2006 acura TL it leaks water in to the front map lights im thinking it's the windshield trim its starting to bend upwards can I put silicone and the. Place the seal back on it ??

[@AJSWoodworks]

Isaac Sanchez Actually, I would try to have the trim replaced before putting silicone on it. Silicone can trap moisture if it isn’t dried and sealed.

[@glasser2819]

it sounds strange how water can end up inside at the center... is it not coming in from the sides?? Is car parked sideway on an incline road? (>> windshield surrounding seal is getting sun damaged ) 👍

[@RomboutVersluijs]

How did you take those clips of without breaking them? Just saw a video from a garage, it was an older car, but a couple of then broke while getting the mold strip off

[@AJSWoodworks]

They tend to break even if you are careful, but if you are very careful, you can get the screwdriver to incrementally release each tab so they don’t catch and break off.

[@RomboutVersluijs]

@@AJSWoodworks well I checked my shield today. Some fuxking moron put the main seal, I believe serefane, straight on the clipping parts. The complete left side is not clipped in due to that. Wtf is for lousy shitass job

[@lanceandres62]

Did the Clear Flex Seal work? I'm have the same problem water coming from same spot just on the driver side..had to gut out carpet though

[@AJSWoodworks]

Lance Andres8j Unfortunately not. I would recommend using something more weather resistant. I ended up using silicone, but I’ve had to reapply it a few times due to cracking.

[@AdeebDollie]

I had to remove my carpet as well. I'm not sure where the leak is coming from but I am going to have to seal everywhere. Does the bottom of the windscreen also have to be sealed by that plastic trim that goes over it?

[@BadWeatherfreak]

I have the same problem. I put silicone on the corner of the windshield and also replaced the strip. And is still leaking. You think it might be the top weather stop? Is kinda cracked

[@BogomilVasilev]

How did you take off the windshield clips? I have a few broken and I want to buy some from an automorgue. They all say that's impossible to do without damaging the clips.

[@AJSWoodworks]

Bogomil Vasilev I damaged some of them, you just have to be careful and depress both tabs at once while you pop it out. It’s possible but difficult.

[@kingkoopur9212]

Use a plastic trim.pry the blk strip starting from the front of the car working ur way towards the back.tool to depress or push in the tiny teeth looking tabs ...

[@robertsimmons3870]

The "gasket" under the windshield is not a gasket. Its urethane. You're not "missing a chunk", it under the glass as its what holds the windshield to the body - its an adhesive. What you are seeing is where it oozed out from under the glass. NEVER seal a windshield with anything other than urethane. If you use silicone and have the glass replaced, the urethane may not bond properly. 99% of leaks in the corners are due to sun roof drains being clogged. But, some Honda Accords had a body seam issue under the trim. There is a TSB out in regards to it. Body seam sealer is the appropriate fix for the seam issue.

[@AJSWoodworks]

I’ve made an updated video regarding the issue where I use body sealant.

[@naminsky]

Can u use polyurethane

[@naminsky]

What product u recommend

[@markconboy8366]

Did you worry at all about rust or mold forming in the headliner? I have the exact issue on my 2010 Accord and I’m concerned if I should take it apart and dry it out before hand.

[@AJSWoodworks]

Mark Conboy That was certainly a concern. I was more concerned about mold growth, and will likely use oxyclean or something similar, to clean the cloth.

[@markconboy8366]

AJS Woodworks did you remove the plastic piece right below the water stain? I’m not sure if the water is able to travel all the way down there

[@AJSWoodworks]

Mark Conboy I did not. I’ll have to check and see if I need to clean that area.

[@glasser2819]

cosmetic damage us one thing but then the side pillar channels the water right on top of MICU computer! If you have "door lock issues", bluetooth or garage door opener or Bus faults related to MICU control you'll know. 👍

[@rebekahgracebarnes4053]

how do you remove the carpet? I need to dry mine out or ?

[@AJSWoodworks]

Rebekah Grace Barnes The floor carpet? I’m not sure. The headliner can be removed, but it requires the removal of various attachments and the visors.

[@naminsky]

Hey did it work I got same issue

[@AJSWoodworks]

I made an updated video that worked better. It’s linked in the description.

[@THERIPPER216]

I have water on my driver floor board what’s the fix for that? I checked the drains and they seemed fine

[@AJSWoodworks]

Have you checked your door seals? I'm not sure what else it could be, unless you have a leak in the body of the car.

[@AdeebDollie]

Did you find the leak? I have the same leak on my passenger side, the driver sits on the right hand side in South Africa.

[@ohyeahyeah6625]

THERIPPER216 Dash leak I bet. Common on old gm cars

[@nowpresent2167]

Ac drain leak

[@FloridaBuckeye1976]

I had the same issue with my 2003 Accord Coupe. It was from a seal in the rear view mirror. Took the dealer 3 days of hitting it at all angles with water to find it. Years later it did it again. For some reason only that one would deteriorate. Now it leaks from windows in both doors. My mechanic replaced one of the rubber seals to see if it would work. No luck. I now have to keep duct tape along the outside along the bottom where the rubber is. Wish I could find someone who knows how to fix this. Would be nice to put my window down.

[@mybackyardparrots9198]

I was so estatic when I saw this video - the water mark was exactly where mine is. Yippee - until I walked to my vehicle and saw that it did not have the same trim by the door🤦‍♀️ There is no trim above the door - I gotta figure out how the water runs UP from the door rubber gaskets, or try and figure out if it's the windshield, or the above rack, or .....😒

[@AJSWoodworks]

I’ve made an updated video that is linked in the description. I think it is coming from the weld in the track on the roof above the door.

[@arock99]

Fuck this is happening to my car and mine looks perfect on the top

[@alfredoramirez6250]

I found it

[@kingkoopur9212]

Update please

[@AJSWoodworks]

Check out my newer video on the issue, and keep in mind that more sealant is required than I used initially.

[@b1zika]

I like the car.. but damn didnt think there would be such an issue with it. I just bought a honda jazz. Tomorrow when i take it home im gonna throw some water everywhere and see if its leaking

[@AJSWoodworks]

areveivo Hahaha, it may be fine. They don’t all leak.

[@connorrambo1252]

Never use silicone.. will make your issue worse over time. Every glass and body tech will thank you.

[@AJSWoodworks]

Connor Rambo I actually had my windshield replaced and the tech told me not to use it. 3M auto body sealant is what I’m using now.

[@vicvickers2112]

You didn't show how to remove trim

[@AJSWoodworks]

Stay tuned, I’m actually working on a new video on how to fix this issue with more accurate info. I’ll show how to remove the trim better as well.

[@glasser2819]

@@AJSWoodworks this will be great because all those Honda/Acura have the same issue. (Note: German MBenz suffer from the exact same hidden windshield leak soaking carpet and priceless control modules) FYI: yesterday I removed the driver side MICU from under the dash to replace the "door unlock" command relay Acura '04TL and saw CLEAR EVIDENCE of water damage coming from the "upper harness" going towards moonroof central console area. (this connector corosion may help explain the HFL bluetooth Module going crazy and draining battery when it stays "ON" caused by the oxidation bridge at the MICU connector) - This damage looks consistent with a windshield leak more so than moonroof drains or roof seams). It is considerably easier/cheaper to fix windshield side seals with silicon than the water damage caused to control modules inside!! 👍

[@nighthawkj30A4]

I thought it was the Roof Panel

[@AJSWoodworks]

NightHawk J30 It is usually the windshield, or sunroof drain. But it could be caused by a variety of things.

[@nighthawkj30A4]

AJS Woodworks yes im going to check sunroof drains. Along with windshield i think i might be the Roof Channel. Because the Honda even had a good will warranty on it.

[@nighthawkj30A4]

AJS Woodworks found out its the Windshield leaking so it have to removed resealed then set back in place. The roof panel wasn’t leaking like I thought.

[@AJSWoodworks]

NightHawk J30 That’s a bummer. At least you know what the issue is so it can be fixed. I recently had my windshield replaced, and the tech thought my sunroof drain may be backed up. It was still leaking.

[@nighthawkj30A4]

AJS Woodworks i know lol i bought 3m sealant that Honda uses and just shot gun approached to speak and did the whole roof channel. Was still leaking afterwards.