Water accumulation in the doors of the 2020 Toyota Corolla has become a common concern among owners. This issue is often characterized by a sloshing or splashing noise when the vehicle is in motion or when the doors are opened and closed. Understanding the causes and solutions can help owners effectively manage this problem.

Understanding the Issue

The primary cause of water accumulation in the doors is due to clogged drain holes. The Toyota Corolla features several drain plugs at the bottom of each door designed to allow rainwater or water from washing to escape. Over time, these plugs can become blocked with dirt and debris, preventing proper drainage.

When water leaks past the window seals, it can accumulate inside the door, leading to noticeable sloshing sounds. This issue is particularly prevalent in areas with heavy rainfall, where water intrusion is more likely.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSB)

Toyota has issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) T-SB-0121-20 addressing this specific problem. The bulletin outlines steps for diagnosing and resolving the water accumulation issue. Key points include:

  • Identification of Symptoms: Owners may notice sloshing noises when turning or opening doors.
  • Repair Procedure: The recommended solution involves removing certain dust plugs from the bottom of each door to allow trapped water to drain out.

Repair Steps

1. Locate Drain Plugs: Identify the three rubber drain plugs at the bottom of each door.

2. Remove Plugs: Carefully remove the forwardmost plug on front doors and the rearmost plug on rear doors.

3. Drain Water: Allow any accumulated water to drain completely from the door.

4. Clean and Reinstall: After draining, clean any debris from the remaining plugs and reinstall them, ensuring that only two plugs remain in place per door.

This repair is typically covered under Toyota's Basic Warranty for 36 months or 36,000 miles, making it advisable for owners experiencing this issue to seek dealership assistance while still under warranty.

Preventive Measures

To prevent future occurrences of water accumulation:

  • Regularly check and clean the drain plugs, especially after heavy rain or car washes.
  • Monitor for any signs of leaks around window seals that may contribute to water intrusion.
  • Park in a way that encourages drainage if possible, such as on an incline.

FAQs About Water in 2020 Toyota Corolla Doors

    • What causes water to accumulate in my Corolla's doors?
      Water accumulates due to clogged drain holes that prevent proper drainage.
    • How can I fix this issue?
      Remove specific drain plugs to allow trapped water to escape, as outlined in TSB T-SB-0121-20.
    • Is this repair covered under warranty?
      Yes, it is typically covered under Toyota's Basic Warranty for 36 months or 36,000 miles.

By understanding the causes and following these solutions, owners can effectively manage and prevent water accumulation issues in their 2020 Toyota Corolla doors.