Why is the car leaking water?
3 Answers
The reasons for car water leakage may include: poor sealing of the trunk seal strip, aging or cracking of the car's waterproof rubber strip leading to leakage, excessive dust and debris clogging the drainage holes of the sunroof drainage channel, or misalignment of the rubber plugs embedded in the floor holes, which can cause water leakage when the plugs are displaced. Water accumulation in the trunk: This is often caused by poor sealing of the trunk seal strip or tail light seal strip. Additionally, a drainage hole above the fuel tank cap, which opens upward, can easily lead to water accumulation in the fuel tank cap area. Car water leakage issues should be addressed at a 4S shop or a professional auto repair shop. Aging rubber strips: With prolonged use, the waterproof rubber strips around the doors and trunk may age or even crack, allowing rainwater to seep into the car through these gaps, resulting in water leakage. Visit a repair shop to replace the rubber strips. Clogged drainage holes: Sunroof leakage is a common issue, where heavy rain outside leads to dripping inside the car. The primary cause is the blockage of sunroof drainage holes by accumulated dust and debris, causing water to overflow. Regularly inspect and clean these areas yourself.
I've encountered car water leakage several times. The main thing is to check whether the air conditioning system's water leakage is normal, as dripping water after turning on the AC in summer is a common phenomenon, usually occurring at the front bottom of the car—that's just condensation and not a problem. However, if the leakage occurs elsewhere, such as near the wheels, it might be due to aging door seals allowing rainwater to seep in; if there's an oil-like liquid leaking under the engine, it could be coolant leaking from the radiator, which has a slightly sweet smell—not fixing it promptly may lead to overheating and engine damage. It's advisable to observe water traces on the ground after parking in the rain and use a tissue to check the color and smell for differentiation—if it's clear and odorless, it might be fine, but if it's colored or oily, you should head to the repair shop immediately. For safety, long-term water leakage can corrode the chassis, so addressing it early can prevent greater damage.
Don't panic if your car is leaking water—most of the time, it's a minor issue. For example, water dripping from the air conditioning system is normal, especially the condensation water discharged when the cold air is on. However, if water is leaking from other areas, such as a large amount near the trunk, it’s likely due to a clogged sunroof drain tube causing water accumulation. If something oily is dripping under the hood, there’s a high chance it’s coolant leakage, which is dangerous and can lead to overheating or breakdown. I make it a habit to check for oil stains or wet spots under the car during washes—simple maintenance can prevent bigger problems. Remember not to ignore small leaks, as rainwater seeping into wiring or control modules can cause short circuits and increase repair costs. In short, take action as soon as you spot an issue.
