Hi I have a 2020 shortage and my pass floor is SOAKED I know it’s from the ac drainage but I’m not sure how to get to it I believe it’s right on the floorboard but not sure
This is a very common issue with many cars, including the Kia Sportage, especially as they get older. You are correct that the wet passenger-side floor is almost certainly caused by a clogged air conditioning (AC) drain hose. The AC system dehumidifies the air, and all that condensed water needs a place to go, which is a drain hose that leads outside the car. When it clogs, the water backs up and overflows into the cabin.
Accessing the drain hose on a 2020 Kia Sportage can be a little tricky because of its location, but it's a fix you can often do yourself.
Here's a general guide on how to get to it and what to do:
- Location: The AC drain hose on the 2020 Sportage is located in the center of the vehicle, near the drive shaft, on the firewall. It's a small, black rubber hose that sticks out from the firewall and points down toward the ground.
- Access: You will need to get under the car to find it. You can either jack up the front of the car or put it on a lift for easier access. Some owners have reported that it can be reached from above by popping the hood and reaching down into the engine bay, but this can be difficult depending on your reach and the specific engine layout.
The Fix: The easiest and most common way to clear the clog is to use a burst of compressed air. With the car turned off, insert the nozzle of an air compressor or even a can of compressed air (like for cleaning computer keyboards) into the end of the drain hose and give it a quick blast. You should hear a gurgling sound and see a gush of water come out, confirming that the clog is cleared. If you don't have compressed air, you can also use a thin, flexible wire or a small plastic zip tie to gently fish around inside the hose and dislodge any debris.
Why it happens: The clog is usually a buildup of dirt, debris, dust, and mold or mildew that accumulates over time in the drain tube. Running your AC regularly, even in colder months, can help prevent this buildup.
Once you have cleared the clog, it's a good idea to let the AC run for a while and then check under the car to make sure water is dripping as it should. This confirms that the drain is working properly. Also, you will need to dry out the soaked floorboard to prevent mold and a musty smell from developing.
