Both footwells on drivers side flooded and airbag warning light on

[OneMoreWound]

Firstly, I’ve just signed up and am new here so hi, and apologies if I’m posting in the wrong area etc.

I recently purchased my first MK5 GTI and got it for a reasonable price however after a few days of rain I’ve noticed that both footwells on the drivers side are soaked through. Not only that but I’ve had an airbag fault light come on.

Anyone had any experience with something like this / have any ideas. Is it likely the airbag fault has been caused by the water.

I can’t visibly see any signs of water ingress and it seems to me that the water has come in below the carpet trim somehow.

I’d appreciate it if anyone can point me in the right direction in terms of what to rule out and how to go about sorting this.

Thanks!!!

[OEM+ DUB]

Hi there,

Sorry to hear you are having issues!  Few suggestions to check:

• rear boot carpet - is it wet?  If so, water could be coming in via light seals, air vent behind rear wheel (under bumper)
• do you have a sunroof?  If so, it could be a blocked drain channel or one has detatched from sunroof cassette
• are all door seals (body and doors) intact and in place?
• is the scuttle area to either side under the wipers free from leaves, dirt, etc.?  If not then water can back up and enter through the heater inlet, etc.

Airbag light could be coincidental but may well be due to water getting somewhere it shouldn't (like a connector under the seats?).

Hope this helps.

[OneMoreWound]

Hi,

Thanks for the response, very much appreciated

The rear boot carpet is dry as is the the area for the space saver
I don’t have a sunroof - it’s the 3 door model (not sure if any of the 3 doors have a sun roof or not but thought it may be worth a mention)
All doors seals etc seem to be in relatively good condition and visibly look good to me
The scuttle area looks okay, however I haven’t had this off so guess that it may be worth having it off to have a proper look?

I’ve been in contact with the dealer I purchased it from and am going to take it in tomorrow for them to scan it initially and try to locate whatever may be throwing up the airbag light however I suspect you’re correct in saying it could be to do with the water.

Turns out I still have a return to base warranty in place so am hoping they will be able to sort - either way I’ve had it confirmed in writing that repairs will be free of charge. The dealership is about an hour from me but I’m going to head over there tomorrow like I said and take it from there. Seems to be the best option for me right now as it’s currently guess work on my part and I’m sure they will be able to inspect in much more depth than I can at the side of the road!

I’ll update once I’ve been there but thanks again for the response, it’s very much appreciated.