What Causes Water Leakage in a Car Trunk?
3 Answers
The reasons for water leakage in the trunk are as follows: Aging of the sealing strip: The trunk sealing strip may wear out or age, or the trunk itself may be deformed. Clogged drainage pipe: Since the trunk is not completely sealed, some sand or mud may enter the drainage pipe during rain or car washing. The drainage holes are designed to be very small and can easily be blocked by dust or mud. Daily maintenance methods for the trunk: Unclog the drainage holes: During regular car washing, clean the sunroof and the water guide channels at the back to ensure the drainage holes are clear. Clean the sealing strip with a damp cloth: Avoid letting fine sand stick to the sealing strip, then use talcum powder or baby powder to absorb excess oil or moisture from the sealing strip.
My car trunk got water inside a few days ago, and I figured out the reasons myself. Mainly, the sealing strip has aged, and once the rubber cracks, rainwater seeps in. Also, the drainage holes can easily get clogged with leaves and mud, causing water to accumulate inside with nowhere to go. Don’t underestimate this little water—over time, the trunk can rust and mold, making it smell awful. This time, I took matters into my own hands, using a high-pressure water gun to test for leaks around the trunk seams and actually found a few small gaps. Replacing the sealing strip fixed it—not expensive but a bit time-consuming. I suggest everyone clean the drainage holes when washing the car to avoid regrets during the rainy season. Regularly check the trunk for dryness, and placing some desiccants can help prevent moisture.
If you find the trunk always damp, it's likely caused by a few common issues: the sealing rubber strip is damaged, the door doesn't close tightly, allowing rainwater to seep in; or the small drainage hole is clogged, preventing water from draining; or there might be cracks in the spare tire compartment causing leaks. I personally enjoy tinkering with my car—I use a hose to slowly pour water over the rear of the car and watch where it drips out to pinpoint the problem. To clean the drainage hole, just poke it with a thin stick, and replacing the sealing strip is easy—just buy one from Taobao. Don’t delay, as water getting inside can damage the audio wiring, making repairs more troublesome. Also, avoid parking near garbage piles to prevent debris from clogging the holes.
