Auto Glass: leak, roof luggage rack, moon roof


Question
I have a '98 Merc Mountaineer with a leak near the top of the windshield.  The headliner is wet just where the passenger side sun visor bolts on.  It does have a moon roof but that area is dry.  On this model the roof is not smooth but has channels running from front to back which leave spaces for water to accumulate where they meet the top of the windshield.  The area does not get wet when I park "uphill".  It only gets wet when I park evenly or "downhill".  Any ideas?

Answer
Hi Richard,

Assuming your windshield has not been replaced recently, the most likely scenario is that water is getting into your roof and it travels down the visor bolt.  It could be penetrating the roof around your moon roof or somewhere else (for example: a luggage rack).  My suggestion would be to park downhill, pull the headliner back, and water test one area at a time.  You'll want to go slowly because it may take some time for the dripping to start.  Check everything on top (windshield, moon roof luggage rack, etc).

Thanks,
Kevin