Is it harmful if the trunk gets soaked in water?
3 Answers
The trunk being soaked in water can cause harm, such as rusting of the trunk and dampness or mold in the car's interior. Below is relevant information about the vehicle trunk: Maintenance: Keep the trunk clean. Properly use the mesh pockets on both sides. Most cars come equipped with these to store items that may roll around, such as flashlights or small fire extinguishers. They don't take up much space, but it's not advisable to pile them together, as they may fall out of the mesh pockets due to bumps during driving. Precautions: Avoid flammable or explosive items. The car interior is a relatively enclosed space, and in summer, the temperature inside can become very high after being exposed to the sun. Flammable or explosive items stored in the trunk may spontaneously combust or explode due to the high temperature.
I just encountered this issue and found it quite upsetting. Water in the trunk is definitely not acceptable, as it can cause metal to rust, especially at the corners and seams where rust forms quickly. Over time, this can affect the vehicle's structural integrity. In humid weather, mold grows rapidly, and the smell can make breathing uncomfortable, which is bad for health. Some cars have electrical circuits or audio equipment in the trunk, and water damage can lead to short circuits or malfunctions, resulting in costly repairs. My approach is to drain the water first, using an old towel to soak up and wring out the water, then leaving the trunk open for a few days to air out, even using a fan to speed up drying. On rainy days, check that the drainage holes aren't blocked, and periodically inspect the underside of the car for rust spots. Rust-proof spray is also useful—applying a bit can prevent future problems. Safety comes first; don't delay dealing with water damage.
As a young car owner, I've encountered this issue and it's both worrying and costly. If the trunk gets soaked, it starts to smell weird, and the odor spreads inside the car, possibly leading to mold growth that affects breathing. Water damage to the wiring can cause short circuits, making repairs expensive—like my spare charger and light strips, which were completely ruined. When cleaning, you might need to drill holes to drain the water or use towels to soak it up, then air-dry and ventilate. Placing some small desiccant packets can help prevent moisture and save money. Check the spare tire well for standing water, as it can easily rust the car body. For bad odors, buy a car deodorant spray and give it a few spritzes. When parking, try to find a higher spot to avoid rainwater and prevent flooding again. If water does get in, don’t panic—address it early to minimize damage.