What Causes Water Leakage Under the Front of a Car?
3 Answers
Water leakage under the front of a car can be caused by the following reasons: 1. Air conditioning water: The evaporator coil's low temperature causes hot air inside the car to condense into water droplets, which then flow out through the drain pipe. This is a normal phenomenon. 2. Windshield washer fluid leak: If the undercarriage is scraped, it may damage the windshield washer fluid pipe, leading to a leak. In this case, the pipe needs to be replaced. 3. Coolant leak: Coolant is usually green or red in color. If you notice colored liquid leaking, it is likely a coolant leak, often due to damage to the radiator or pipes. In such cases, the car's dashboard will usually display a warning. It is important to promptly visit a repair facility for inspection and repair.
When I notice water leaking from under the front of the car, I first check what kind of liquid it is. If there are water stains after using the air conditioning, it's usually condensation, which is normal because hot air condenses on the cooler and flows out; it's often colorless and odorless, especially in summer. However, if I see green or pink liquid, it might be antifreeze leaking, indicating a crack in the radiator or coolant tank, which can cause engine overheating if not addressed promptly. I've also experienced windshield washer fluid leakage, dripping down when the reservoir is cracked—it doesn't affect driving but wastes resources. It's best to stop and observe for a few minutes to identify the source and fix any issues early.
This issue is quite common during daily driving, especially when the air conditioning is used frequently in hot weather. The dripping water is a normal physical phenomenon. However, if the liquid is colored or smells like gasoline, it might involve a cooling system or engine oil leak, such as aging hoses in the radiator leaking, which can be dangerous and lead to overheating or even fire. I make it a habit to squat down and glance under the car before starting it—safety first. Small leaks left unattended can turn into big problems. A simple trick: use white paper to absorb the leaking fluid and check its color to preliminarily identify the type.
