Why is there water under the car spare tire?

[MaddoxMarie]

Water accumulation in the spare tire compartment of a sedan may be caused by poor sealing of the trunk rubber strip or clogged drainage pipes, allowing water to seep into the trunk during car washing or rain. If the trunk rubber strip is poorly sealed, replace it with a new one; if the drainage pipes are clogged, they need to be cleared. Here are some additional details: Solutions for trunk seal leakage: Poor sealing of the rubber strip. The waterproofing of various parts of the car body is ensured by rubber sealing strips. These rubber materials have a certain degree of strength and hardness, and under normal conditions, they do not deform. However, prolonged exposure to air will inevitably cause aging, and frequent use leads to wear, making the sealing strips fragile.

[VonMaggie]

I've been driving this old car for five years and have encountered the issue of water under the spare tire several times. It's usually because the trunk's sealing rubber strip has aged or cracked, allowing water to accumulate when washing the car with a high-pressure hose. Another common cause is a clogged sunroof drain pipe, which can let rainwater flow into the backseat or directly seep into the spare tire area. Over time, the water can rust the spare tire's steel rim and even promote mold growth, leading to unpleasant odors inside the car. My suggestion is to first soak up the water with dry towels, then remove the spare tire to thoroughly dry the trunk floor. After that, carefully inspect the sealing rubber strip for cracks and replace it if necessary. Additionally, pay attention to the humidity inside the car after heavy rain and address any issues early. Regular maintenance of the sealing system can save you a lot of trouble.

[McPenelope]

When I first bought the car, there was also water accumulation under the spare tire. I guessed it was due to an improperly closed trunk or damaged sealing strip allowing water to leak in. That time, I used dehumidifying bags for a few days and was worried the spare tire might rust. After checking, I found potential leakage points on the car body, such as door gaps or poor sealing around the rear windshield, which could also cause water to flow to the spare tire area. If the water is clear, it's mostly rainwater; if there are oil stains, it might be other fluid leaks. When washing the car, always wait until the inside of the trunk is completely dry before putting the spare tire back, to prevent water from accumulating and corroding parts. Simple prevention is usually enough—don’t let it turn into a bigger issue.

[McJonathan]

Spare tire water accumulation is common, mostly due to trunk seal failure or water intrusion. It is recommended to clean the water stains immediately to prevent moisture damage to the spare tire. At the same time, check whether the body gaps are tightly sealed and apply sealing strips if necessary. Prolonged water retention can shorten the spare tire's lifespan and may also cause electrical circuit issues. Regular maintenance is crucial.

[LeElliott]

When I found water in the spare tire, my first concern was safety hazards. This water could cause the spare tire to rust and deform, leading to failure during an emergency tire change. It might be caused by residual water from car washing or defects in the body sealing. Focus on checking whether the trunk mat and drainage holes are blocked. After cleaning, lay a moisture-proof mat for prevention. It’s best to check monthly to detect leaks early and ensure driving safety. A small issue like this can turn into a big problem if not handled properly.