Does water entering through the door glass gap have any impact?
2 Answers
Water entering through the door glass gap can have a significant impact on the vehicle. Here are the specific details: 1. Severe water ingress: The electronic modules inside the vehicle may be soaked in water. If not handled promptly and properly, it can corrode the wiring, connectors, and internal circuit boards, leading to vehicle alarms and functional failures. In such cases, avoid turning on electronic devices if possible. Use a mechanical key to open the door and call for a tow truck immediately to send the vehicle to a repair facility. 2. Minor water ingress: If there is no significant water accumulation on the floor mats, it is recommended to remove the vehicle's battery to prevent electrochemical corrosion, which can worsen the rusting of modules and connectors. Then, take out the floor mats and seat covers for cleaning and drying to prevent odors later on.
Water ingress through door glass gaps is indeed problematic and should not be taken lightly. I've seen many vehicles develop issues because of this. If water seeps through the gaps, it gradually flows into the door interior where electrical connectors and mechanical components are located. Over time, metal parts are prone to rust and corrosion. Particularly at the bottom of the door, accumulated water causes sheet metal to rust, resulting in stiff door operation and potentially compromising safety structures in severe cases. Additionally, electrical components like window control switches or door lock sensors submerged in water may short-circuit or malfunction, posing serious hazards if failures occur while driving. After rain or car washes, promptly checking whether drainage holes are clogged is crucial – a simple tool poke can clear them, preventing costly repairs later. Long-term neglect leads to expensive and complicated fixes, with door panel replacements or circuit repairs starting at thousands of dollars.