Why Can't the Car Door Open After the Car is Submerged in Water?
3 Answers
Because, except for convertibles, most cars on the market have excellent sealing, with glass and sealing strips isolating the interior from the exterior. When a car is submerged in water, due to its good sealing, water cannot quickly flow into the car. Under the action of water, there will be a pressure difference between the inside and outside of the car, and the water pressure will tightly fix the car door, making it difficult to open at this time. Here is some extended information: 1. Flood-damaged car: A flood-damaged car refers to a vehicle that has been soaked in water, generally meaning the engine and transmission have been submerged, with the water depth exceeding the wheels and body seats, and the vehicle's bottom components being in prolonged contact with water. Such vehicles pose significant risks, as the electrical circuits are prone to short circuits and fires. 2. Hazards: A car submerged in water can develop many faults, such as warning lights appearing for no reason, the car suddenly stopping and failing to start, among a series of other issues. If the engine has been exposed to water, the least severe fault would be noticeably increased fuel consumption, rust, and obvious engine resonance. Poor subsequent handling can lead to many more problems. Components that are easily damaged include circuits, electrical devices, precision instruments, heat and sound insulation materials, and oils.
I once encountered a situation where the car door wouldn't open after being submerged in water. Common causes include rusted mechanical components getting stuck, short circuits in the electrical system, or water pressure effects. When water enters the door lock mechanism, rust buildup can jam the lock cylinder; for electric locks, water damage can ruin the control module; high water pressure inside the car or body deformation after submersion may also press against the door edges, making it hard to open. I recommend not forcing the door open, as this can damage the door frame or cause personal injury. Try manual unlocking or using a spare key first. If that doesn't work, seek professional towing services or visit a repair shop. Safety first—don't approach the vehicle until the water has fully receded to prevent accidents. Parking in low-lying areas should be avoided to reduce risk, and promptly cleaning and drying the locks after flooding is more effective.
My car was flooded, and the door won't open, which is often due to electronic failure. Most modern cars have automatic door locking systems, and water immersion can easily cause short circuits or fuse blowouts, leading to door control module failure due to water ingress; some cars also have safety mechanisms like child locks being activated. I will try gently pulling the manual release cable to check, and if that doesn't work, I'll call for help. After the incident, it's necessary to clean electrical connectors to prevent long-term corrosion leading to more expensive repairs. Regular maintenance can check for aging seals, but after a flooding event, it's recommended to conduct a comprehensive electrical diagnosis.
