Is it a big deal if car tires are submerged in water for a day?
2 Answers
Tires being submerged in water is not a problem, and even long-term immersion will not have any significant impact. However, compared to the effects of long-term water immersion on tires, the impact of standing water on wheel hubs and brake components (such as brake calipers, brake pumps, and brake discs) is much more severe. It's important to remember that tires themselves are made of rubber, making them virtually "immune" to water damage. Here are some additional solutions for dealing with rust on car parts after water immersion: 1. If rust does occur, it's not the end of the world—simply use fine sandpaper to polish it off. 2. However, if the corrosion is very severe, timely replacement is necessary. Even if you manage to sand off the rusted surface as much as possible, it can still affect braking performance (such as causing steering wheel vibration during braking or producing unusual noises). 3. Unlike tires, wheel hubs and brake components are made of metal and can undergo oxidation reactions with standing water. Over time, this can lead to corrosion (rusting) of the metal parts, significantly impacting the car's braking performance.
Having tires submerged in water for a whole day is indeed troublesome. I once encountered a similar situation when my car was parked overnight in a spot where rainwater had pooled. The next morning, I found the tires completely soaked, which instantly made me nervous. After researching, I learned that although tire rubber itself is highly water-resistant, prolonged immersion can lead to rust on the wheel rims and even soften the sidewall material, causing cracks. If you ever face this, it's best to check tire pressure and inspect the tires for bulges or damage before driving off. If everything seems fine, drive slowly for a short distance to test the balance and avoid potential issues at high speeds. In the long run, a single soaking won't have a major impact, but frequent exposure will shorten tire lifespan. It's safer to park in dry areas whenever possible.
