Can an Electric Vehicle Be Used Normally After Drying Out from Water Ingress?
3 Answers
Under normal circumstances, an electric vehicle can be used normally after drying out from water ingress, as electric vehicles generally have a certain level of waterproofing. However, the severity of the water ingress must be considered. If the water ingress is relatively severe, components such as the controller, circuit board, and motor should be cleaned promptly to prevent short circuits. To avoid electric leakage or electric shock accidents after water ingress or wading, the power supply can be turned off via the control panel. Solution for motor water ingress: The motor is one of the core technologies of an electric vehicle and the area responsible for generating propulsion. If water enters the motor, it can immediately render the vehicle inoperable. If the water depth is not too deep and the duration is short, the motor should be disassembled and tilted overnight, with the tilt direction toward the motor shaft (i.e., the wiring side). Since the motor shaft is hollow, tilting it will allow accumulated water to drain from the shaft. If the water ingress is severe, the motor's securing screws should be loosened, and the motor should be placed in sunlight to dry. Drying time for water ingress in electric vehicles: Generally, if the internal circuits are not affected by water, the vehicle can often be reused the next day. If the water ingress is severe, it is best to leave the vehicle untouched for 24 days.
I usually enjoy delving into car knowledge, and the issue of electric vehicles getting wet is definitely not something to take lightly. After being soaked, drying the surface might seem fine, but critical components like the battery and motor could still retain moisture internally. Over time, this can corrode wiring or even cause short circuits and fires, posing significant risks. I recommend not rushing to use it and contacting a professional repair shop for a thorough inspection as soon as possible. I’ve personally encountered similar situations—minor repairs are manageable, but if the battery is damaged, replacement costs can run into thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. In short, safety comes first—don’t gamble with luck. Ensure there are no hidden risks before resuming normal use.
As a seasoned driver with years of experience, I recommend not rushing to start an electric vehicle after water exposure. While a gasoline car might survive after drying, EVs are different—lithium batteries fear water immersion. Residual moisture can gradually corrode circuit boards, causing issues like erratic battery readings or system crashes. Last year, a friend's car got slightly wet from rain. After drying for two days, they tried driving it, only for the car to break down halfway, resulting in costly repairs. It's best to let it dry naturally in a well-ventilated area for at least three days, then have a professional check the motor and battery seals at a shop. Don't skimp on this small expense.
