What are the impacts of driving in heavy rain on the car?
3 Answers
Driving in heavy rain can be harmful to the car. Below is a detailed introduction to the damages it can cause: 1. Damage to the car body: (1) After the car gets wet in the rain, rainwater not only remains on the surface of the car body but also flows into the gaps underneath the car. When driving in the rain, mud and dirt from the road can also splash into these gaps. (2) When rainwater mixes with this mud and dirt, it forms grime that adheres to the gaps, hiding in hard-to-notice areas. If not cleaned properly, this can lead to rust on the car body. 2. Damage to the paintwork: Nowadays, rainwater in urban areas generally has high acidity. The acidic components in the rainwater can severely corrode the car's paintwork, causing irreparable damage over time.
Driving in heavy rain has significant direct impacts on the car. Having driven through heavy rainstorms multiple times, the most noticeable effect is on the tires: reduced grip on slippery roads, frequent tire slippage, significantly longer braking distances, and accelerated wear, especially when the tread is shallow or tire pressure is low. Rainy conditions also lead to water accumulation, and driving through puddles at high speeds can damage the suspension system or cause uneven tire wear. I remember once encountering a heavy rainstorm on the highway—emergency braking caused the car to skid, nearly leading to a loss of control, which tested the durability of the chassis and braking components. Regularly checking tire pressure and tread depth is crucial, and ensuring the tire surface is free of cracks before the rain helps. Driving slowly and avoiding sharp turns can reduce tire stress and extend their lifespan. Additionally, though small, windshield wipers are critical—delaying their replacement can impair visibility and indirectly increase the risk of vehicle damage.
From a mechanical perspective, rainwater is not friendly to the engine and powertrain. I've dealt with cases of wading through water in the rain: water entering the engine can clog the air filter or cause short circuits, and in severe cases, even lead to stalling issues. In deeper water, splashes while driving can affect the lubrication components of the chassis, accelerating corrosion. Heavy rain also makes the exhaust system prone to water accumulation, leading to frequent abnormal noises after cold starts. It's advisable to avoid puddles while driving, maintain a steady speed, and avoid sudden throttle presses to prevent excessive engine pressure. After rain, it's best to check the air filter and chassis drainage holes, and regularly apply protective coatings to maintain the chassis. The generator and radiator are also susceptible to clogging from mud and water, so periodic cleaning can prevent a decline in powertrain efficiency and maintain the vehicle's core performance.
