Is it normal for water to leak under the car in summer?
2 Answers
It is normal for water to drip under the car when the air conditioning is on in summer. This water is the condensate from the air conditioning system. Condensate: Refers to the liquid water formed when water vapor (i.e., gaseous water) undergoes the condensation process. The condensate drains from the collection tray under the evaporator of the indoor unit. Hazards of condensate not being drained: When the air conditioning is cooling, the temperature of the evaporator and the air ducts leading to the passenger compartment is very low, generally around 0-5°C. The water vapor in the outside air will condense and liquefy on the pipes and housing of the air conditioning system at such low temperatures. If the condensate cannot be drained, it can cause moisture around the air conditioning system (inside the dashboard) and corrosion of components.
I drive a lot for commuting, and in summer, it's quite common to see water leaking under the car in the parking lot, especially after using the air conditioning. This happens because during the cooling process, moisture in the air condenses, similar to a home air conditioner, and clear water drains out from the vehicle's drain tube, usually located near the center under the front axle. If the water is clear, odorless, and at normal temperature, it's nothing to worry about. Just be cautious not to park in areas with standing water, as it could potentially corrode electrical components if it leaks into them. I always check the drain holes after washing my car to ensure they're not clogged. However, if you notice leaks near the center or rear of the car, or if the water is oily or colored (like green), it could indicate a coolant or brake fluid leak, which is abnormal and requires immediate repair. Overall, water leakage from the AC in summer is just a sign of your car functioning normally—no need to panic.
