How to Deal with Water Leakage After Scraping the Undercarriage?
3 Answers
Dry or drain the water from the car's undercarriage, then locate the source of the leakage. First, inspect the cooling system of the radiator to check if the cooling system pipes are loose or damaged. Check the bottom of the radiator for scratches; if there are any, the radiator needs to be repaired. Inspect the windshield washer fluid pipes for leaks. If there is a leak, replace the hose.
Last time I scraped the undercarriage while driving and noticed a leak, so I immediately pulled over to the side of the road to safely inspect it. The leaking fluid was green coolant, and I suspected the radiator was damaged. I turned off the engine to let it cool down and used a cloth to temporarily block the leak to avoid burns. Then, I checked the manual to locate the radiator and called for a tow truck to take the car to the repair shop. The mechanic found a crack in the radiator and replaced it with a new part to fix the issue. This incident reminded me to pay attention to road conditions while driving, especially slowing down on bumpy roads and gravel paths. Installing an undercarriage guard is a good solution. Regular maintenance is also crucial—I now make it a habit to glance at the undercarriage during car washes to spot potential issues early. The repair cost me over 400 yuan, which was a small lesson. Now, I’ve developed the habit of driving slowly after rain to avoid scraping through puddles.
Leakage caused by chassis scratches is mostly due to damage to the oil pan or radiator. It is recommended to stop and turn off the engine immediately for inspection. Observe the color of the leaking fluid: brown-black indicates engine oil, green is coolant, and clear may be rainwater. If engine oil is leaking, do not start the engine to prevent fire; if the coolant is hot, wait for it to cool down. For minor leaks, clean the surface and observe the leakage rate; if severe, call for rescue directly. I recommend going to a professional shop where technicians will use equipment to check pressure and locate the leakage point, then repair it by welding or replacing parts. Chassis damage may also affect other components such as the suspension or fuel lines, and towing for a comprehensive evaluation can cost hundreds to thousands. Daily protection includes choosing smooth roads and adding protective covers to reduce risks, especially performing a simple self-check of the chassis for dents before long trips.
