What are the effects of rainwater leaking into the engine compartment?
3 Answers
"Rainwater entering the engine compartment may cause brake failure, battery short circuit, oil deterioration, sensor damage, and other effects. Below are the corresponding solutions and daily maintenance: Solutions: Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery to prevent short circuits in various electrical components due to water ingress; inspect the engine, first checking whether water has entered the engine cylinders, as this can bend the connecting rods and damage the engine. Also, check if water has mixed with the engine oil, as this can cause the oil to deteriorate and lose its lubricating properties, leading to excessive engine wear. Additionally, check if water has entered the transmission, as this can degrade the gear oil and cause gear wear. Daily maintenance methods: When the vehicle is in a waterlogged state, do not turn off the engine immediately. Instead, let the engine idle for a while to evaporate any water traces in the engine, transmission, clutch, and exhaust pipe to prevent rust. It is best to drive for a short distance to also evaporate any moisture in the brakes. Regularly inspect the engine compartment to check for any signs of water ingress."
I've been driving for over 30 years. Last year after heavy rain, water leaked into the engine compartment and the car wouldn't start, which was very troublesome. Rainwater can cause short circuits in wiring, especially older wires that are more prone to corrosion. Over time, it can also cause metal parts to rust, affecting ignition, and even damage the electronic control unit, leading to performance degradation. Worse still, accumulated water can pose a fire risk. I remember that repair cost me nearly two thousand yuan, mainly for replacing fuses and cleaning cables. Now, every rainy season, I check the hood seals and drainage channels to ensure they're intact. Prevention is better than cure and can save a lot of money. Long-term neglect can lead to dirt accumulation in the engine compartment, accelerating wear and tear, which is not worth the loss.
I often drive new cars and like to tinker with these electronic gadgets. Rainwater leaking into the engine compartment can be a huge problem. Modern cars have lots of computers and sensors, and if water gets in, it can cause short circuits instantly, triggering dashboard warning lights. Last time my car leaked, it nearly burned the battery terminals due to severe corrosion. At best, it causes starting difficulties; at worst, it can lead to stalling and dangerous driving. Over time, parts rust and their lifespan shortens, leading to costly repairs—replacing a single module can cost thousands. I recommend regularly checking the gaps around the hood, especially after rain. Simple moisture-proof measures can prevent major overhauls.
