A clogged drain tube is the most common cause of water leaking into a Honda Accord. Keeping the tubes clear of debris is key to preventing leaks.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share my insider knowledge on the causes of and fixes for drain tube clogs on Honda Accords.
Why Do Water Leaks Happen In Hondas?
Water leaking into the interior of your vehicle can cause a variety of issues. It causes mold and mildew growth, electrical shorts, corrosion, and an overall musty odor.
Water most commonly accumulates on the driver’s side floor of Honda Accords. This is due to drain tubes located at the bottom corners of the windshield that direct water away from the vehicle. Water backs up and spills onto the floor when they become clogged.
There are a few common causes of clogged drain tubes on Honda Accords:
- Debris buildup – Leaves, pine needles, dirt, and other debris can collect on the windshield and eventually wash down into the drain tubes, getting stuck. This is the most prevalent cause of clogs.
- Tube deterioration – The flexible vinyl tubes can become brittle and crack over time. This allows debris to get lodged in the cracks.
- Disconnected tubes – The drain tubes can become disconnected from their outlets down below. This blocks proper drainage.
- Grommet issues – Rubber grommets around the drain tube holes in the firewall can degrade, allowing water to bypass the tubes.
Regular maintenance and cleaning are key to preventing drain tube clogs and the resulting water leakage issues.
How To Prevent Clogged Drain Tubes?
As they say, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Here are some tips to keep your Honda Accord’s drain tubes flowing freely:
- Every few months, use a hose to flush debris out of the drain tubes. Direct water into the holes at the bottom corners of the windshield.
- Use a can of compressed air to periodically blow out the drain tubes. This dislodges any debris that has been collected.
- Check that the drain tubes are still connected to the lower outlets under the car. Reconnect any that have become detached.
- Replace any cracked or brittle drain tubes. Use oven cleaner to soften vinyl tubes for removal.
- Keep the windshield and hood clear of debris like leaves and pine needles. This prevents buildup.
- Replace firewall grommets if cracked or dried out. Use silicone sealant to ensure a watertight fit.
With regular maintenance and cleaning, you can avoid costly drain tube repairs down the road. An ounce of prevention really is worth a pound of cure when it comes to Honda drain tubes!
Signs of a Clogged Drain Tube
If preventative maintenance escapes you and your Honda Accord’s drain tubes become clogged, there are some telltale signs to watch out for:
- Water on the driver’s floor – This is the biggest giveaway water isn’t properly draining through the tubes. As water backs up, it will spill over onto the floor.
- Wet carpet smell – Stagnant water leads to mildew and mold growth in the carpeting. This creates a distinct, musty, wet odor.
- Fogged windows – Excess interior moisture will fog up the inside of the windows. This is especially noticeable first thing in the morning.
- Electrical issues – Water leaking down onto fuses, wiring, and modules can cause shorts and electrical gremlins. Watch for warning lights or component failures.
- Rust accumulation – Water dripping onto metal components under the dash can lead to premature rust and corrosion.
Don’t ignore these warning signs. Addressing a clogged drain tube promptly can minimize water damage to your Honda’s interior.
How To Unclog Drain Tubes?
If your inspection confirms that the drain tubes on your Honda Accord are indeed clogged, here are some tips for getting them cleared out:
- Use Compressed Air
- Flush with Water
- Snake the Tubes
- Remove and Clean
Use Compressed Air
A simple can of compressed air can be used to blast out debris that has clogged the drain tubes. Fill each drain hole in the windshield corners with the plastic nozzle. Blast a series of short bursts while angling the nozzle in various directions. Most impediments should be removed as a result of this.
Flush with Water
For stubborn clogs, flush the drain tubes with a garden hose. Insert the hose into the drain holes and allow the water to flow for 30-60 seconds. Then, go underneath the car and look for water coming out of the lower outlets. Rep as necessary until they flow freely.
Snake the Tubes
Using a long flexible brush or pipe cleaner, insert it into the drain tubes starting from below the car. Angle and rotate the brush to scrub away any debris stuck inside the tube. Run water afterward to flush everything out.
Remove and Clean
Finally, the drain tubes can be completely removed for cleaning. This may be required if they are cracked or have significant mineral buildup. To remove the tubes from the grommets, use a small flathead screwdriver. Then, thoroughly clean the tubes with hot, soapy water or vinegar before reinstalling them.
With a little patience, you can clear out those drain tubes and prevent further water leakage into the interior. Just be patient and use a combination of air, water, and scrubbing.
How To Repair Drain Tube Damage?
If your Honda’s drain tubes have cracks or holes in them, they will need to be repaired or replaced entirely. Here’s how to do it:
- Patch Small Holes
- Replace Rubber Sections
- Install New Drain Tubes
- Replace Firewall Grommets
Patch Small Holes
For small punctures or tears, you can patch the drain tubes rather than replacing the whole tube. Clean the area thoroughly and use a tube patch kit or a dab of waterproof adhesive. Secure the patch by wrapping the tube in duct tape.
Replace Rubber Sections
If the flexible rubber portions of the drain tube are cracked or leaking, you can often just replace those sections rather than the entire metal tubing. Cut out the damaged part and splice in a new rubber piece using adhesive and hose clamps.
Install New Drain Tubes
Severely damaged or corroded drain tubes will need complete replacement. Carefully remove the entire tube from the grommets. Install new tubes in the existing holes and secure them with adhesive. Test for leaks before reassembling trim panels.
Replace Firewall Grommets
The grommets that surround the drain tube holes in the firewall can be replaced if they become cracked or deteriorated. Using a small flathead screwdriver, remove the old grommets. Fill the holes with new rubber grommets and seal them with adhesive.
You can repair any damage to the drain tubes and prevent further leakage into the car by patching, splicing, and replacing parts. Simply take your time and use appropriate adhesive products.
Alternative Water Drainage Options
In some cases, such as rusted out floors, it may not be possible to repair the factory drain tubes. Here are a couple of alternate ways to manage water drainage in that scenario:
Install Floor Drain Plugs
Rubber drain plugs can be installed in the floor to allow water to escape. Drill a 1-2 inch hole at the lowest point in the floor. Clean up burrs and insert a stopper-style drain plug. Remove the plug to drain water as needed.
Custom Drain Hose
Install a hose through the floor for unlimited drainage. Drill a hole near the front or rear side sill. Insert a 1/2″ PVC hose and seal it with adhesive. Water can drain out the bottom end while the top remains hidden beneath the carpet.
While not ideal, these alternative drains can provide necessary drainage if the factory drain tubes are damaged. The key is to get the water out before it causes damage to the interior.
FAQs
How Many Drain Tubes Does A Honda Accord Have?
Most Honda Accords have 4 drain tubes – one at each lower corner of the windshield. Sedans have tubes at the A-pillar corners and coupes at the B-pillar corners.
Where Do Honda Accord Drain Tubes Drain To?
The drain tubes route water down through the firewall and out through drain exits under the car. These outlets are located above the front wheels and forward of the doors.
Do Honda Accords Have Rear Drain Tubes?
No – Honda Accords only have drain tubes at the windshield corners. Other models like the Odyssey and Pilot have additional tubes at the rear hatch.
Why Does My Accord Leak Water On The Passenger Side?
While less common, a clogged passenger drain tube or deterioration of the heater core housing can cause leaks on the right floor. Inspect both sets of tubes.
Can I Use A Bent Clothes Hanger To Clean Drain Tubes?
Yes, a wire hanger is an effective DIY tool for clearing debris from the tubes. Just be careful not to puncture the soft vinyl tubing.
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