What is the reason for the continuous buzzing sound when an electric vehicle gets water inside?
2 Answers
Electric vehicles making abnormal noises after getting water inside is due to water ingress after being exposed to rain, causing short circuits or malfunctions in the controller or wiring. Electric vehicles are relatively vulnerable to water, and it is quite common to hear the horn, alarm, or internal water flow sounds after rain. Below are specific details about water ingress in electric vehicles: Electric Vehicle Circuit Drying Method: The simplest troubleshooting method is to use the circuit drying method. The circuits in electric vehicles are not complex, especially those for alarms, which are mostly located in the front part of the vehicle. Use a screwdriver to remove the shell, carefully inspect the circuits, wipe away any internal water accumulation, and use tools like a hair dryer to dry out the internal moisture. Then, place the electric vehicle in a well-ventilated and dry area for some time. Generally, this should resolve the issue. Precautions for Water Ingress in Electric Vehicles: Do not power on immediately; ensure it is completely dry before powering on and riding. Electric vehicles have a certain degree of waterproofing, and they can usually be used again after drying. If the buzzing sound persists after 24-48 hours of being stationary, you can then check the control wiring of the electric vehicle. The main areas where the controller gets water are at the wire connectors; water accumulation in the control plugs can cause electrical components to malfunction. Disconnect each plug to drain the water and dry them with a hair dryer. If drying does not help, the vehicle will need to be sent to a repair shop for inspection.
I've also encountered similar situations where an electric vehicle makes a buzzing noise after water ingress, which is usually caused by water seeping into the internal components of the motor. When water enters the motor coil area, it can lead to short circuits or insulation failure, resulting in abnormal electromagnetic vibrations that produce the buzzing sound. Based on my years of experience using electric vehicles, this issue may also be accompanied by other problems, such as moisture in the battery pack or cooling system failure. Water entering the battery cells can cause poor heat dissipation, forcing the fan to operate at high speeds and amplifying the noise. I recommend stopping the vehicle immediately and disconnecting the power supply, as prolonged operation could corrode components or even pose a risk of spontaneous combustion. It's best to check whether the vehicle's sealing strips and chassis drainage holes are intact, and pay extra attention to water accumulation under the body after rainy days. A buzzing noise is not a minor issue—neglecting it often leads to high repair costs. The safest approach is to have it towed to a professional repair shop for a comprehensive electrical inspection.