What is the situation with the dripping sound under the car after parking?
2 Answers
Here are the reasons for the dripping sound under the car after parking: 1. The dripping sound under the car after parking is not actually dripping water. The sound comes from the three-way catalytic converter, which is a normal phenomenon. It is the sound of the three-way catalytic material expanding and contracting with heat, so there is no need to worry too much. 2. When the car is running, the temperature of the car parts is very high, and they will expand slightly due to heat. After turning off the engine, the heat source is lost, so the temperature will drop due to the influence of the ambient temperature. Additional information: The working principle of the three-way catalytic converter is that when high-temperature exhaust gas passes through the purification device, the purifying agent in the three-way catalytic converter will enhance the activity of the three gases CO, HC, and NOx, promoting them to undergo certain oxidation and reduction chemical reactions to turn into harmless gases.
A dripping sound under the car after parking is something I've encountered several times before, and it's actually quite common. Most of the time, it's caused by normal condensation from the air conditioning. When the AC runs, it absorbs moisture from the cabin, and after parking, the moisture condenses into water droplets that drain from the chassis, producing a ticking sound. This water is usually clear and colorless, indicating no issue. However, it could also be a cooling system leak—such as from a poorly sealed radiator or hose—where coolant slowly drips out, possibly appearing slightly pink or green, which requires attention. Another possibility is the exhaust system: moisture accumulates in the exhaust pipe while the engine runs and drips out after parking. Pay attention to the location when driving: dripping near the front often points to the AC, while the rear suggests exhaust or a leak. If there's no unusual odor and the fluid looks normal, it’s generally fine. But if the dripping persists or has a sweet smell, it’s best to visit a repair shop promptly for an engine check. Don’t overlook this small issue—proper car maintenance saves both hassle and money.