What Causes Water Leakage from the Trunk Seal?
3 Answers
Water leakage in the car trunk is very similar to that from the sunroof, with two main causes generally: aging of the sealing strip; clogged drainage pipes. Below are detailed explanations of the specific reasons: Aging Issues: Rubber components inevitably age over time, and the sealing strips around the sunroof and trunk play a crucial role in keeping rainwater out. Once these strips age, leakage is likely to occur. Clogged Drainage Pipes: Leakage caused by clogged drainage pipes is also common. Since neither the sunroof nor the trunk is completely sealed, some dirt and sand can enter the drainage pipes during rain. Typically, the drainage holes are designed very small, making them easily clogged by dust and sand.
Recently, my car's trunk has also been leaking water. After troubleshooting, I found that the main issue is the aging and deformation of the trunk seal strip. Rubber materials tend to harden and crack after five or six years of use, allowing water to seep through the gaps during rain. Another possibility is that the trunk lid is deformed—like after my car was rear-ended, the lid didn’t close properly post-repair, preventing the seal strip from compressing tightly. Also, don’t overlook clogged drainage holes; accumulated leaves and debris can block water drainage, causing it to back up into the inner side of the seal. Cleaning the drainage holes yourself is quite simple, but replacing the seal strip is best left to professionals, as they can adjust the lid and check the body's sealing integrity. Prolonged water exposure can lead to rusting of the trunk’s metal panels, which is even more troublesome, so it’s better to fix it sooner rather than later.
Water leakage in the car trunk is mostly caused by failed sealing strips. Aged rubber parts shrink and become brittle, with cracks forming channels for water. What car owners often overlook is improper installation of the strips, such as irregular disassembly during maintenance causing edges to lift, or minor collisions deforming the trunk lid. Additionally, clogged drainage channels on both sides of the trunk are common, especially during rainy seasons when accumulated water seeps into the car by overflowing the strips. For solutions, prioritize clearing the drainage holes and checking the strips for cracks or deformities. If severely aged, it's advisable to replace the entire set with original strips, as aftermarket parts may not fit properly and worsen leakage. Regularly maintain the strips with silicone grease to delay aging, and avoid directing high-pressure water jets at the seals during car washes.
