2000 toyota solara conv., toyota solara, modern cars

how to fix or clean channel or gutter that diverts rain water away, so it does not leak into my trunk.
Thank you.

Answer
    Open the trunk and clean out the gap between the gasket and the sheet metal.  Follow the channel down to where it dumps the water on top of the bumper and make sure that it is clear.  Then inspect the seam where the quarter panel abuts the panel behind the rear window.  In the old days this seam was leaded or soldered and the solder would sometimes crack.  Most modern cars spot weld the seam and seal it with silicone or asphalt before painting over.  These sealers will dry out and crack, allowing water in.  I'd also inspect the attachment of the top to the body to make sure that it doesn't have a split or tear.  It's also possible that the well at the base of the top has a drain (like a sunroof does).  If so, the drains can become clogged with road crud and tree debris.  Clean them out with a piece of flexible wire force down the drain until the water drains out under the car.
Car Repair Talk's forum.