What to do if a little water gets into the car?
3 Answers
When opening the car door, do not use the remote control directly. After water enters the car, avoid any electrical activation. Although cars are generally waterproof, to prevent circuit short circuits, it is essential to check all electronic components. Remove all items from the car, as the carpets are usually quite damp. Use a vacuum cleaner to suck up the water, and ensure the seats are dried thoroughly. Open the car doors and sunroof under the sun to air out the car. The main goal is to ventilate the car, ensuring all water inside is absorbed completely, followed by disinfecting the car.
When a car gets a bit of water inside, as an experienced mechanic who often deals with such issues, I would act immediately to prevent bigger troubles. First, check where the water is coming from—common sources include aging door seals or clogged sunroof drains. Use a dry cloth to wipe away all visible water, especially on the dashboard, center console, and carpet areas. Turn on the AC heating mode at maximum fan speed for at least half an hour to dehumidify and dry out the interior moisture. Don’t rush to start the engine; wait until it’s confirmed dry before testing. Water in the engine bay is even more dangerous—check if the air filter is soaked. Too much water ingress can cause electrical shorts or rust; if electronic devices malfunction, take it to a professional shop for a full inspection. For prevention, regularly clean the drainage pipes and replace worn seals.
My car has also been flooded, and now I know the emergency handling tricks. The first step is to turn off the engine and cut the power, then use a vacuum cleaner or towel to absorb the water under the floor mats, and remove the rear seats to check for hidden water pockets in the corners. Open the windows for ventilation and drying, and use a hairdryer to assist in dehumidification on cloudy days. Common water entry points are often at the door edges or trunk mats, and if not treated promptly, they can lead to mold and odors. Later, pay attention to checking if the cigarette lighter and sockets are malfunctioning. Safety first—if the flooding is severe, don't risk driving and find a mechanic to eliminate short-circuit hazards. For daily maintenance, apply some lubricant to the seals to prevent recurrence.
