What Are the Common Causes of Water Leakage in a Car Trunk?
3 Answers
Reasons for trunk leakage: 1. Wear and aging of the trunk seal or deformation of the trunk; 2. Blockage of the drainage pipe leading to leakage. Since the trunk is not completely sealed, some mud and sand may enter the drainage pipe during rain or car washing. The drainage holes are designed to be very small and can easily be clogged by dust or sand. Daily maintenance methods for the trunk: 1. Clean the sunroof and rear water guide channels during regular car washes and unclog the drainage holes; 2. Use a damp cloth to clean the seals to prevent fine sand from sticking to them, then use talcum powder or baby powder to absorb excess grease or moisture on the seals; 3. When using the trunk daily, always ensure the correct usage methods and perform regular maintenance. If any abnormalities are found, promptly inspect and repair them.
I've encountered trunk water leakage several times, mostly due to aging or cracked sealing rubber strips allowing rainwater to seep in. Sometimes it's because the drainage holes are clogged with leaves or debris, causing water to back up. Additionally, using high-pressure water jets directly on seams during car washing can also cause problems - I've had water intrusion from this before. More seriously, an improperly closed trunk lid or slight deformation (like from an unrepaired rear-end collision) can lead to gradual water seepage during rain. If water intrusion occurs, address it immediately to prevent mold growth and wire corrosion, which creates dampness and safety hazards. My suggestions: regularly inspect rubber seals and replace if hardened or cracked; use thin wire to clear drainage holes; avoid direct high-pressure spraying on edges when washing. If water does get in, remove interior linings to dry thoroughly, and ideally have a professional shop conduct follow-up checks.
I remember last month after washing my car, I opened the trunk and found it full of water, which was quite alarming. After asking a friend, I learned that the cause is mostly due to sealing issues or gaps near the taillights. The sealing gasket can become brittle and deformed over time, allowing rainwater to seep in, especially noticeable during the rainy season. Clogged drainage holes are also common, as those small holes can easily get blocked by mud or leaves, causing water to backflow into the trunk. Additionally, water may seep in from the chassis after driving through water or heavy rain, something I hadn’t initially considered. To prevent this, I’ve made it a habit to check the seals monthly, gently bending them to see if there are any cracks. I also regularly clean the drainage holes near the trunk to ensure they’re clear. If water does get in, don’t delay—quickly absorb it with a towel and open the windows to ventilate, otherwise, odors and damage can worsen over time.
