Is It Harmful for a Car to Be Exposed to Rain for a Long Time?
2 Answers
It is harmful for a car to be exposed to rain for a long time. The hazards of prolonged exposure to rain include: 1. Bacterial growth: The air humidity is high after rain, and the interior of the car is usually damp, which can easily breed bacteria and affect human health. 2. Potential accidents: After being exposed to rain, mud can accumulate in the wheel cavities and undercarriage areas, allowing moisture to hide inside the chassis, leading to rust. In severe cases, the wheel cavities may even loosen or perforate, which can cause safety hazards. The undercarriage, especially the brakes, may experience reduced braking force due to moisture, resulting in delayed brake response. This can affect the car's performance and even lead to safety accidents.
Keeping a car exposed to rain for extended periods is definitely harmful. I’ve experienced it myself—rainwater carries slight acidity, which can make the car paint appear dull or even lead to rust. Over time, the exterior will look aged. If the car is left outdoors in the rain for too long, spots may form on the paint surface as pollutants in the rainwater adhere and accelerate fading. In northern regions, rusting is even more likely, with rust spots spreading from corners. Water accumulation around door seams and tires exposes metal parts directly, leading to rust, and repairing the paint later can be costly. In areas with severe acid rain, it’s practically a disaster—both metal and plastic components suffer. It’s best to regularly wash the car and apply wax for paint protection, or invest in a car cover to shield it, which can extend the car’s glossy appearance for several more years.
