What to Do When Water Enters the Car Cabin?
3 Answers
Vehicle water ingress can be divided into two scenarios: 1. Water entering while the vehicle is in motion. For vehicles that stall due to water exposure, the repair shop needs to check for water traces in the intake and exhaust systems on the engine side. The intake system should be inspected in the following order: air filter, intake manifold, back of the valves, and inside the cylinders. For the exhaust system, the entire exhaust pipe should be removed and stood upright (with the exhaust outlet facing downward) to check for water drainage. If rainwater has entered the engine cylinders, the engine must be disassembled to remove the water. 2. Water entering while the vehicle is parked. For vehicles severely flooded while parked, the repair shop typically removes all interior components from the cabin. Then, they inspect wiring, ECUs, and other components for short circuits or burns, replacing damaged parts as necessary. As for waterlogged carpets and upholstery, they can be cleaned and dried.
Last year, my car got flooded, which really scared me. Fortunately, I handled it promptly. The first step is not to drive—stop immediately and find a safe place. Then quickly use dry cloths or towels to soak up the water, especially the accumulated water under the floor mats and carpets, to prevent damage to the wiring and short circuits. Next, open all the doors and the trunk to allow air circulation. It’s best to use a fan or dehumidifier to dry it out, and if the weather is nice, let it sit in the sun. Check the source of the water ingress—common causes are clogged sunroof drainage holes or aging door seals. Clean the sunroof holes or inspect the sealing rings. Finally, if the situation is severe, don’t attempt DIY repairs. Take it to a repair shop immediately for a thorough inspection of the electronic systems to avoid future issues, such as control unit damage or rust.
I was particularly worried about electrical issues after finding water in the cabin, mainly because places like the sunroof, door seals, or air conditioning drain pipes are prone to leaks. Regular maintenance is crucial—check the sunroof weekly to prevent blockages, and replace or lubricate door seals every six months to maintain elasticity. Clean the air conditioning drain pipe regularly to avoid internal water accumulation and backflow. When water gets in, remove it immediately and ventilate to dry, otherwise, electronic components may short-circuit, potentially blowing fuses or causing worse damage. Mechanics often recommend using a heat gun to thoroughly dry the interior and, if necessary, removing seats and carpets for deep treatment to prevent wire corrosion or moldy odors. Don’t overlook safety—avoid starting the engine immediately after water ingress to prevent further damage.
