Is it okay if water gets into the window gap?
4 Answers
It's fine. In fact, during rain, the outer glass sealing strips on the doors and windows can't completely prevent rainwater from entering the door. Here is some relevant information about water-damaged vehicles: Concept: A water-damaged vehicle refers to a car that has been submerged in water, typically meaning the engine and transmission have been soaked, with the water level exceeding the wheels and body seats, and the bottom parts of the vehicle being in prolonged contact with water. Such vehicles pose significant risks, as the electrical circuits are prone to short circuits and fires. Insurance: There are two types of insurance related to water damage: the most common one is vehicle damage insurance, and the other is called engine special loss insurance, commonly known as water damage insurance.
As an experienced driver who has been driving for many years, I believe water seeping into the window gaps should never be ignored. Common causes of water infiltration after car washes or rainy days are usually due to aging sealant or minor door deformation creating gaps. A small amount of water entering is generally harmless, as car doors are designed with drainage holes at the bottom to automatically drain it away. However, if these drainage holes get clogged with mud, sand, or leaves, water will accumulate inside the door. Over time, this will inevitably cause rust and corrosion on the metal door panels and may even damage electronic components like the power window motor. Once electronic components short-circuit, the repair costs can be steep—I recall my neighbor spending several hundred dollars because of this issue. Additionally, accumulated water can lead to mold growth inside the door, creating unpleasant odors that affect passenger comfort. Therefore, if you notice water ingress, immediately check if the drainage holes are clear. If necessary, visit a professional shop to clean or replace the seals to prevent potential hazards.
As a young person who loves road trips, I used to be curious about the consequences of water getting into the window gaps. Normally, when driving with windows down on rainy days or during car washes, water can seep in, but the built-in drainage channels in the doors will gradually let the water drain away, so there's no need to worry. The real trouble arises when the drainage holes get clogged—for example, due to accumulated dust or debris, leading to water pooling inside. Over time, this can accelerate rusting of components and even affect the window's roll-up function. Once, I cleared the drainage holes myself using a soft tube to blow them out as a quick fix. For prevention, avoid parking under trees to prevent leaves from falling in, and during car washes, refrain from using high-pressure water jets directly on the edges to reduce risks. As long as you regularly check for any unusual smells or noises, it's generally safe and won’t affect driving, but developing good habits can save you a lot of hassle.
Observing water ingress through window gaps is actually quite common during vehicle use. Worn sealing strips or door deformation after impacts can allow water to seep in. When drainage holes are clear, the water naturally flows away harmlessly. However, if blocked, accumulated water may corrode internal metal components or soak electronic modules, potentially causing power window system failures that require professional repair. Solutions typically involve clearing drainage holes or inspecting and replacing damaged seals when necessary. Neglecting this issue not only increases repair costs but also affects the vehicle's lifespan, making timely maintenance crucial.
