Does leaving the trunk open and getting rainwater inside have any impact?
4 Answers
There is no significant impact. Simply remove the trunk mat, wash and dry it, then wipe the interior clean. It's best to open the trunk on sunny days to let it air out. Some believe cars aren't that fragile - waterproofing measures are taken for water-sensitive and critical components. Many manufacturers conduct rain tests before delivery to ensure safe operation in wet conditions. However, others argue rain exposure can cause damage, primarily to the paintwork. Below is relevant information about parking protection: 1. In heavily polluted areas, atmospheric sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and dust particles form acid rain that condenses on vehicles. Prolonged exposure without timely washing may corrode the paint surface, causing aging, loss of gloss, or cracking. Rinsing the car after rain is advisable. 2. For outdoor parking, using a car cover provides rain, dust, and sun protection, effectively safeguarding the vehicle.
Last time my trunk got waterlogged in the rain, it caused quite a few issues. Standing water can corrode metal components like trunk hinges or floor panels, and rust can compromise the vehicle's structural safety. It may also seep into electronic parts, such as reverse parking sensors or light sockets, where water can cause short circuits, damage circuit boards, or blow fuses, potentially leading to repair costs in the thousands. A spare tire soaked in water can harden and deteriorate, making it unsafe for use. Additionally, water stains can promote mold growth, causing unpleasant odors in the cabin and posing respiratory risks. When dealing with it, thorough drying and ventilation are essential. To prevent this, always double-check the trunk's condition when locking the car.
I've seen many similar cases where water ingress in the trunk causes significant issues. Rainwater leads to metal rusting, damaging the trunk frame and spare tire tools; moisture seeping into electronic systems like lock sensors may cause malfunctions; items stored inside can be damaged, such as clothes getting moldy. Quickly dry it out and check the seals.
I've experienced water in the trunk before. Water can cause metal parts to rust and electronic components to short circuit. Simply drying and ventilating should suffice.
