Should the Trunk Drain Plug Be Removed?
4 Answers
Trunk drain plugs should be removed. Here are the reasons why trunk drain plugs need to be removed: 1. Prone to rust: Each car door typically has two or more drain holes, usually located at the lower part of the door panel. If not removed, water can accumulate inside the door, leading to rust over time. 2. Prone to short circuits: The door contains many components, including window regulators and audio system wiring. If exposed to water, these components can be damaged. 3. Prone to clogging: Since the drain holes on the doors are positioned low, they can easily get clogged with mud when driving on muddy roads. Therefore, it's important to clean the drain holes on the doors promptly.
Having driven for over twenty years, my experience tells me that the trunk drain plug should definitely be removed. That little plug was originally designed for temporary dust or small animal prevention, not for long-term use. If left in place, water can accumulate under the trunk floor, leading to corrosion of metal parts over time, such as rusting the trunk structure. It may also seep into the spare tire compartment or tool storage area, damaging carpets and other items. Even worse, stagnant water in hot weather can breed mold, causing unpleasant odors inside the car and affecting health. This is especially problematic during rainy seasons or after car washes, as trapped water can lead to more severe consequences. During every maintenance check, I make it a habit to clean the drain holes with a small brush or air gun to remove leaves and debris, ensuring they stay clear—a process that takes less than ten minutes and is simple yet effective. Don’t worry about dust; it’s much easier to handle than water accumulation. Remember to develop the habit of checking before each winter to avoid frozen and cracked pipes.
As a car owner, handling the trunk drain plug is straightforward: remove it. This hole is designed for drainage, and the plug is only for temporary protection. If not removed, rainwater or car wash water can easily accumulate on the floor panel, leading to rust and corrosion. In severe cases, it may damage electrical wiring, resulting in costly and time-consuming repairs. When I check it myself, I simply open the trunk, locate the drain hole, gently pull out the plug, and then use a thin wire to remove any blockages. Cleaning it once a month is sufficient to ensure smooth drainage. If parked in a dusty area, it's fine to leave the plug in for a couple of days, but it should be removed immediately afterward. Save money and hassle—don't overlook this detail, as water accumulation can lead to repairs costing thousands. Developing a regular maintenance habit will make your car more durable.
Many car owners make this mistake in the community chat: using the trunk drain plug as a permanent fixture. In fact, this hole is designed by the car manufacturer specifically for drainage, and the plug is only a temporary dust-proof measure. If you don't remove the plug, water will accumulate at the bottom of the trunk and corrode the car body. My neighbor's car rusted due to water accumulation, and the trunk floor rotted away, requiring repairs for over half a year. It's recommended to remove the plug to ensure smooth drainage. The cleaning method is simple—just use a stick or a vacuum cleaner to clear the hole. Don't be lazy; it's crucial for the long-term health of your vehicle.
