How long does it take for water in the car chassis to cause damage?
2 Answers
There is no specific time frame. If the car is severely flooded, it can cause the engine to stall immediately. Here are the hazards of water entering a car: Mold and corrosion in exhaust vents: Cars have numerous channels, and water ingress is difficult to clean thoroughly. Over time, it can lead to mold and corrosion, such as inside door panels, air conditioning ducts, and structural cavities. Areas like the crankcase and differential also have exhaust vents. Deterioration of lubricating grease: Components like the four-wheel bearings and half-shaft lubricating grease can quickly deteriorate when soaked in water. Long-term issues with electronic devices: Electronic equipment in cars, such as the electronic parking brake, audio system, and various sensors, can develop long-term problems if not repaired promptly after being submerged in water.
I've been driving for almost thirty years and have experienced several instances of water entering the chassis. How long it takes for damage to appear really depends on the situation. If it's just a light splash from rain, drying it properly for a few days might be fine. But if it's a major flood submerging the chassis, especially with saltwater, metal components can corrode very quickly—rust can start overnight. I've seen rusty bolts fail the very next day. Electronic components are even more fragile; if water seeps into wire connectors, the car might not even start before you drive away. So don't delay—if water gets in, it's best to turn off the engine immediately and tow it to a repair shop for drying. If left untreated, the entire chassis could rot within three to five months, making repairs both troublesome and costly. It's also important to avoid deep water while driving—prevention is far better than repair.
