Windshield gutter drain problem in Outback and Crosstrek

[PatFran]

I had this problem with my 2009 Outback, and now again with my 2024 Crosstrek. I have to park on the street, and tree debris is again clogging the windshield drain of my new Crosstrek- after a rain, the water just pools in the drain area on the right side of the car. I've used a toothpick to carefully pick out the debris, but is there a better tool to use to safely keep the drain clear? I had to have the Outback dashboard removed when the water began to leak inside the car. There must be a way to prevent this from happening-- some way I can either regularly keep the tiny drain open, or protect the drain hole while it is parked?

 

[2fargonetoo]

I had this problem with my 2009 Outback, and now again with my 2024 Crosstrek. I have to park on the street, and tree debris is again clogging the windshield drain of my new Crosstrek- after a rain, the water just pools in the drain area on the right side of the car. I've used a toothpick to carefully pick out the debris, but is there a better tool to use to safely keep the drain clear? I had to have the Outback dashboard removed when the water began to leak inside the car. There must be a way to prevent this from happening-- some way I can either regularly keep the tiny drain open, or protect the drain hole while it is parked?

Use lawn trimmer line!

 

[PatFran]

I'm assuming this has worked for you? It sounds like a perfect solution, better than very thin wire that I worry might break off-- I will try it. Thank you so much for sharing!!!