How Does Water Get Inside the Car on Rainy Days?
3 Answers
Possible reasons for water inside the car on rainy days include: leaks or poor sealing of the sunroof; clogged or detached sunroof drainage holes preventing water from draining outside the vehicle; driving through deep water that enters the car; or poor sealing of the vehicle body. Below is an extended explanation: 1. Insurance Claims: If the vehicle is submerged in water while parked, the damage can be claimed under comprehensive insurance. If the engine is damaged by water while driving, it requires specific water damage insurance. 2. Inspection: If water is found under the carpets, on the driver’s side, under the passenger or rear seats, it’s crucial to promptly remove water from under the floor mats or carpets. Failure to do so can lead to mold, damage to wiring harnesses, or control units. Depending on the severity of water ingress, remove all seats from the cabin. Take out floor mats, carpets, and other components. Dry out any moisture. Thoroughly air-dry carpets and floor mats. Replace any damaged control units. Electrical wiring that has been exposed to water must be cleaned to remove moisture and dampness. While addressing interior water, always check how water entered the vehicle.
I've been driving for a few years and have fixed several water leakage issues myself. Water getting into the car is usually due to aging door seals or a sunroof that isn't closed tightly. Once after rain, I found the carpet soaked and discovered that the drainage holes under the doors were blocked by leaves, causing water to back up. It could also be due to deformed window seals or rusted cracks at the body seams. If not repaired promptly, the car can develop mold, and the circuit boards may short-circuit, especially in older cars, which is more dangerous. I recommend regularly cleaning the drainage holes during car washes—just use a thin wire to unclog them. If the seals are damaged, replacing them isn't difficult; you can find them on Taobao for just a few dozen yuan. If you're handy, you can install them yourself and save on repair costs.
Having driven for half my life at this age, seeing rainwater seep into the car isn't just a nuisance—it can lead to serious issues. Water typically enters through door seals or windshield gaps, often due to worn weatherstripping or clogged sunroof drainage channels. Once after rain, I neglected the accumulated water that soaked the floor mats, causing my feet to slip while driving and nearly causing an accident. Tiny cracks in the body panels, especially in lower areas, can also let water in. My advice: after any rainfall, promptly check all drainage points to prevent water from pooling. Persistent leaks can cause chassis rust or interior corrosion, and in severe cases, electrical system failures. Safety first—it's best to have a professional auto shop conduct a thorough inspection rather than cutting corners and risking bigger problems.
