How Serious Is the Problem of Water Entering the Car When Forgetting to Close the Window During Rain?
2 Answers
Forgetting to close the window during rain and allowing water to enter the car may or may not have an impact, depending on the extent of water ingress. Below is a detailed explanation of different scenarios: 1. Minor water ingress: If only a small amount of rainwater has entered, it typically will not affect the car's wiring or mechanical systems, as the wiring is protected by covers. Simply clean and dry the wet items. 2. Severe water ingress: Rainwater entering the cabin may cause electronic devices to malfunction or lead to rusting of certain components. Additionally, since the front passenger area is close to the dashboard, electronic devices may get wet when water enters the car. Even if the electronics are not damaged, the front passenger seat, floor mats, and other interior components may still absorb water.
That day I also forgot to close the window, and the water intrusion in the car caused quite a problem. Water seeped under the carpet, corroding the metal floor panel and causing electrical short circuits. The air conditioning system malfunctioned, and the repair cost me nearly a thousand dollars. Long-term water accumulation can lead to mold, leaving a strange odor in the car that lingers for days. Even worse, electronic devices damaged by water can suffer permanent harm, and critical systems like the central locking or airbags may pose safety hazards. Now I’ve developed a habit of walking around the car to check the windows before leaving and keeping an umbrella inside as a reminder. If water does get in, I immediately use a dry cloth to soak it up and run the heater for a few hours. If possible, I take it to a professional shop for deep cleaning to prevent rust and mold—never letting a small issue turn into a big hazard.
