Is the water leakage when the car stalls from the air conditioning?
3 Answers
Is the water leakage when the car stalls from the air conditioning? The water leakage when the car stalls is from the air conditioning. Here are the relevant details: Turning on the air conditioning: The compressor located in the engine compartment (low-pressure area) also condenses moisture from the air, which drips onto the ground. Sometimes, the amount of water can be even greater than the drainage from the evaporator. The low-pressure pipes of the car air conditioning are not wrapped with insulating foam, making the surface of the pipes prone to condensing moisture from the air. Water droplets will also condense and gather at the lowest point of the pipes, dripping down. Car air conditioning system: The dripping occurs in the middle-right part of the front of the car. Therefore, after driving for a while and then stopping the car for some time, you will often notice water dripping from the middle-right part of the chassis. This is not a problem with the vehicle but rather the water expelled by the car air conditioning system.
Whenever I use the air conditioning on hot days and then turn off the car, I notice water leaking under the vehicle. This is most likely a normal operation of the AC system and not a malfunction. When the AC is running, the internal evaporator absorbs heat from the cabin, similar to a refrigerator, causing moisture in the air to condense into water droplets. These droplets are then drained out through a dedicated tube under the car. This water is typically colorless and odorless, appearing near the AC drain outlet under the chassis, especially common during hot summer drives. However, don’t be too complacent—if the leaking fluid is colored (like green or pink) or has a sweet smell, it might not be AC condensation but coolant leakage, which indicates a dangerous cooling system issue that could lead to engine overheating and damage. I’d recommend making it a habit to check: after turning off the engine, observe the location and color of the leakage. If it’s clear, there’s no need to worry. But if it’s in unusual areas like under the hood, visit a mechanic immediately. Additionally, regularly cleaning the AC filter can reduce condensation buildup and help extend the system’s lifespan.
Friend, I've encountered this situation while chatting by the car too. It gave me a scare when water seeped from under the car after turning off the engine, but later I learned it's just the natural drainage of condensation from the air conditioning system after working on hot days—just like how our breath condenses. When the AC runs for a long time, moisture accumulates in the system and automatically drains when parked. The water usually appears near the front lower part of the chassis, and as long as it's clear and oil-free, there's no need to worry. However, don't take it lightly—if the engine temperature is high or the leak isn't near the AC outlet but closer to the engine, it might be coolant leakage, which requires immediate attention to avoid engine damage. Here's a quick tip: after parking, just crouch down for a quick glance to check the water's quality and location. Also, after heavy rain, accumulated water might be mistaken for AC drainage—remember, AC water only appears after using the cooling function. Keeping this habit will save you trouble and keep you safe.
