How to Deal with Water Intrusion in the Driver's Seat?
2 Answers
Do not start the car after it has been submerged in water. Take photos of the scene and the license plate number, which can serve as evidence for insurance claims. Call the insurance company's claim hotline, which must be done within 24 hours, and also call for a rescue tow truck. Inform the insurance company about the repair shop where the car will be placed. While waiting for rescue, you can disconnect the vehicle's power, shift into neutral, and push the car to a safe area. Before repairs, report to the insurance company to assess the damage as required. Avoid driving through unfamiliar waterlogged roads. If you must drive through water, shift to a low gear and proceed slowly.
A few days ago, water leaked into the driver's seat of my car—what a hassle! The lesson of forgetting to close the windows during the rainy season was painfully clear. The moment you notice water intrusion, you should immediately turn off the engine, park the car safely, and use towels to soak up the water on the seat. Don’t forget to lift the floor mats and wipe underneath. I even used the waterproof mat from the trunk as an emergency floor cover. If the water level rises above your ankles, don’t force driving—there’s a risk of damaging the electrical modules under the seat. Next, check for leaks—close all doors and windows tightly, then use a hose to simulate rain and spray along the door seams to see if water seeps inside. Also, check if the sunroof drainage holes are clogged. After handling the issue, remember to leave the windows open and let the car air-dry for three days, or use moisture-absorbing bags to prevent mold. Finally, take the car to a repair shop to inspect critical components like airbag sensors—water-damaged cars can hide many hidden risks.
