Is it a big deal if a little water gets in the car when I forget to close the window in the rain?
3 Answers
If only a small amount of water gets in, it won't have much impact. However, for safety reasons, it's best not to turn on any electronic devices in the car, such as the lights or starting the vehicle, to prevent short circuits caused by water exposure. If it's still raining, use an umbrella or waterproof cover to protect the vehicle. Here is some relevant information: Generally, if a large area of rainwater gets into the car, it won't damage the vehicle or affect the mechanical system, nor will it pose a threat to the electrical system, as the car's wiring is protected by sheathing. However, the car's speakers may be affected depending on their location and whether they get wet. If you notice the speakers are damp, take the car to a professional service center for repairs promptly.
Forgetting to close the car window on a rainy day and getting a little rainwater inside, as someone who frequently works on cars, I generally think it's not a big issue. The key is to see how much water got in. If only the seats or carpets are slightly wet with no signs of pooling water, then it's basically fine. Rainwater can bring moisture, which may cause the interior to mold or produce odors, affecting ride comfort. I recommend immediately using a dry towel or absorbent paper to wipe off the surface moisture, then opening the windows to ventilate for at least a few hours to ensure the interior dries thoroughly. If electrical components in the car, such as door lock switches or the audio area, weren’t touched by water, the risk of a short circuit is minimal, so no need to worry too much. However, if you notice a musty smell or find that electronic components aren’t working, water may have seeped inside, and it’s best to have it checked by a professional. Developing the habit of closing windows when exiting the car is the best prevention.
I made the same mistake last time. The window was slightly open, so not much water got in, and it didn't seem like a big deal. The seats and carpets got wet, so I quickly wiped them with tissues and then turned on the air conditioning's dehumidification function while driving. They dried out completely within a day or two. The main risk is that moisture can breed bacteria, making the air inside the car worse, especially in summer when mold is more likely to develop, so I clean the interior regularly. As for electronic devices, since no water reached the dashboard or center console, there was basically no impact. However, if water accumulates under the carpets and isn't dealt with, metal parts can rust over time, and even wiring may deteriorate and fail. In short, as long as you dry everything promptly after minor water exposure, there's no need to panic.
