Is it serious if the car window is left open and gets rained on?
3 Answers
Leaving the car window open in the rain may have the following consequences: 1. Passenger seat position: If the passenger side window is left open during rain, water may enter the cabin, potentially causing electronic device malfunctions or rusting of some interior components. 2. Other positions: Generally, small amounts of rain entering the car or even larger water ingress will not damage the vehicle's internal wiring system or affect the mechanical systems. This is because the car's electrical circuits are protected by sheathed wiring, making them less prone to issues. 3. Treatment methods: If the electrical equipment is unaffected, simply visit a 4S shop for a drying treatment. If rainwater has seeped into the carpets or floor mats, they should be removed, cleaned, and dried. After addressing the water accumulation, it's also advisable to disinfect the interior to prevent lingering odors.
The severity of leaving windows open in the rain varies. Last month, I accidentally left a small gap, and during heavy rain, the entire front passenger seat got soaked. If the wetness is significant, immediate action is required. Water trapped in the floor mats can develop a musty smell if not dried properly, which can be quite nauseating. Seat covers are prone to mold stains, and leather seats can harden and crack. The most troublesome issue is rainwater seeping into the door panels and air conditioning system, leading to bacterial growth and strange odors when the AC is turned on. However, a light drizzle isn’t a big deal—just wipe it dry with absorbent towels and air out the car with the doors open. If the water level rises above the floor mats, you’ll need to remove the seats to clean the wiring harnesses, as water reaching the control panel could cause a short circuit, which is a major headache.
The main concern with rain exposure is interior damage, as my sister's car unfortunately experienced. Rainwater can cause fabric seats to yellow, leather seats to crack, and the sponge beneath the carpet becomes extremely difficult to dry after absorbing water, making it prone to mold in the humid southern climate. Remember to remove all floor mats for rinsing and sun-drying, as inhaling mold spores can be harmful. Additionally, it's advisable to check the interior humidity; if it exceeds 70%, placing some bamboo charcoal bags is best, and if possible, use a household dehumidifier to blow air for two hours. Don't forget to dry and maintain the door seals to prevent winter freezing and leaks. Also, pay attention to the gaps around dashboard buttons—clean them with alcohol-dipped cotton swabs to prevent oxidation. Of course, electronic short circuits are rare unless water reaches the gear lever.
