OSR Footwell Wet Carpets (A209, 2004)

[GravyRocket]

Yesterday, when giving our CLK a quick once-over, I noticed that the right rear footwell is damp. Since the carpet in the footwell and on either side of it is dry, it appears that water is seeping between the car's body and the interior components on either side. Unlike a Ford Focus, this Mercedes obviously doesn't have a simple method to lift the carpeting and inspect the interior for signs of excessive water damage. My primary concern is whether or if anyone has already encountered this issue and discovered a workaround.
Based on my observations, the window seal at the imaginary B Pillar that is attached to the back side window is in poor shape. It is stiff and has moulded to the door glass over the last 22 years, rendering the "seal" ineffective. Water started leaking past the seal when I rinsed the side of the car with the hose, which was operating at a very low pressure, I must emphasise. Even while the roof gutter prevents water from getting in, it still doesn't seal properly at the window sills. I'm not entirely certain that this is the cause of the water in the footwell, but I would want to get it corrected nevertheless. My second question is, is it possible to replace these glass seals?

[RumbleRex]

It could work for a part number. Just plug in your vin and start digging.

[RumbleRex]

https://partsouq.com/en/catalog/genuine/locate?c=Mercedes-Benz

[GravyRocket]

Yours faithfully. Unattainable, naturally... 🙄

[BrambleBurt]

The source of water pooling inside a vehicle is not always obvious.

First thing I would do is check the front drains, which are located right behind the bonnet hinges, to see if they are clogged. Water can seep in via the opening and end up at the back of some cars even though it doesn't seem to be wet up front. In addition, I would look under the vehicle for any damaged or missing rubber components, such as grommets or bungs used for workshop jacks, that might potentially cause damage to the floorpan or sills.


After that, I was wondering if your vehicle was a cabriolet or a fixed head coupe. Are there any sunroofs on it? Should inspect sunroof drains and seals.

The next set of seals are for the doors and windows, and lastly, the boot and the back light.

The carpets may need to be removed, which can be a pain, and then someone should spray the car with a hose while you keep an eye on it for signs of water seepage. It may take some time to figure these things out.

The bright side is that summer is almost here, and with it, a string of dry months.

[GravyRocket]

Much obliged for the response. This is a cabrio. While I will check each drain, I can tell you that the front main ones are clear and that the smaller ones on either side of the A pillar are clogged. Would a thin copper rod work to remove them?
You can tell it's worn or not closing firmly because the OS (RHD) vertical seal between the rear and door seal is almost completely sealed, with the exception of a small opening at the top that measures roughly 10 mm in length and is open by around 1 mm.
Can you tell me how to elevate the OSR carpet so I can check if the water is actually seeping in from underneath or if it was just resting there?