What to do if the car window was left open and got rained on all night?
3 Answers
Clean the interior of the car thoroughly, remove any wet components, and dry them either by air drying or exposing them to sunlight. If the electrical wiring is not affected, there should be no major issues. However, if the wiring is involved, it is necessary to inspect the wiring to prevent any short circuits. Here is some information about car windows: 1. Introduction 1: The function of a vehicle's window glass is to block some light and ultraviolet rays, provide insulation for the interior, and protect the items inside the car from damage during rain or snow by keeping the windows closed. 2. Introduction 2: If the car windows were left open during rain, after the rain stops, drive the car to an auto repair shop for timely cleaning and drying of the interior.
As a driver who has maintained cars for many years, when encountering a situation where the car windows were left open and the car got soaked in rain overnight, my first reaction is to avoid turning the ignition key to prevent electrical system short circuits and potential fires. Immediately, I use absorbent towels to dry the water on the seats, steering wheel, and center console, with special attention to the floor and under the carpets where water tends to accumulate and cause mold. I then open all doors and windows to ventilate the car for half a day—preferably parking it outside in good weather to dry in the sun. On cloudy days, I use a fan at low speed to blow air through the interior for at least an hour. Next, I check if electronic devices like the cigarette lighter and radio are functioning properly. If they’re not working, it might be a blown fuse, which can be easily replaced by referring to the manual. Afterward, it’s best to visit a repair shop to have a professional inspect for any wiring corrosion to avoid long-term issues. I also use an alcohol spray to disinfect surfaces and eliminate bacterial odors, as health and safety should never be overlooked. For prevention, I use a small window clip as a reminder to close the windows, ensuring I don’t repeat such mistakes.
I often do small repairs myself to save money, and dealing with a car after rain isn't difficult. First, use a large towel to quickly absorb visible water, especially under the seats and floor mats where water can accumulate and cause odors. Then, open the windows to let it air dry naturally. If there's no sun, use a hairdryer on low heat to speed up the evaporation of moisture from the interior. Check simple electrical components like lights and the AC to ensure they're working properly. If there's a malfunction, it might be a fuse issue—just refer to the manual and replace it in the fuse box for just a few dollars. To save money, I don't use a dehumidifier; instead, I use quicklime in a sealed plastic bag for moisture absorption, which works well. Once the car is dry, spray some perfume to eliminate odors. The whole process doesn't take much time. The most practical habit is always closing the windows when getting in and out of the car.
