Is it a problem if water leaks through large gaps in the window seals?
2 Answers
Water leaking through large gaps in the window seals can be problematic. If a significant amount of water enters, it may lead to mold formation. Additionally, for safety reasons, it is best not to turn on any electronic devices inside the car, such as lights or starting the engine, to prevent short circuits caused by water exposure. You can use the key to open the car door, and if it is still raining, cover the vehicle with an umbrella or waterproof cloth. Methods to deal with water accumulation: If the electronic devices are unaffected, simply take the car to a 4S shop for an internal drying treatment. If rainwater has soaked into the carpets or floor mats, remove them for cleaning and drying. After addressing the water accumulation, it is necessary to disinfect the interior to prevent lingering odors. Solutions for water entering the car's carpets: Depending on the severity of the water ingress, remove all seats in the cabin, as well as the floor mats and carpets, to deal with the moisture. Dry the carpets and mats thoroughly, replace any damaged control units, and ensure that any water-exposed electrical wiring is cleaned to remove moisture. While handling the interior water issue, always check how the water entered the car. Methods to deal with water entering the trunk: Drain the water as soon as possible. There is a rubber drain plug at the bottom of the spare tire compartment in the trunk—remove it to drain the water. Quickly identify the entry point of the water and check if the trunk lid is deformed or if the surrounding seals are damaged. Open the trunk for ventilation, remove the trunk liner and any items inside, and leave it open to dry for at least an hour to prevent mold and rust.
I've been driving for many years and have encountered the issue of large gaps in window seals causing leaks, which is indeed not a minor problem. Water leaking into the door interior or under the floor mats can, over time, lead to rust and corrosion of metal components, damaging the vehicle's underbody structure. What's even more troublesome is that accumulated water breeds mold and unpleasant odors, affecting the air quality inside the car, especially during humid seasons when it feels stuffy. Wet electrical wiring can also cause short circuits, damaging window switches or the air conditioning system. I usually check the seals regularly for signs of aging or hardening and apply some lubricant during simple maintenance. If the gaps are noticeable or the seals have hardened, it's advisable to go to a repair shop promptly to replace them. Don't wait until rainwater accumulates too much before addressing the issue, as repairs will then be more costly and time-consuming.
