Why is water dripping from under a sedan?
3 Answers
Reasons for water dripping from under a sedan: 1. If it occurs after running the air conditioning for a while, it is a normal phenomenon. This happens because moisture inside the cabin condenses on the evaporator, forming water droplets that are then discharged outside the vehicle through the drain pan and drain pipe; 2. It could be due to a leak in the windshield washer fluid pipe caused by scraping the undercarriage. In this case, visit a repair shop for a replacement; 3. If the water is colored, it indicates a leak in the cooling system, and you should have it inspected and repaired. Methods to check and eliminate the dripping issue: 1. Check if the coolant in the radiator is low, inspect the cooling system pipes for looseness or damage, and look for any scratches on the bottom of the radiator; 2. Ensure the coolant reservoir is not overfilled (overflow can occur when the temperature rises); 3. Inspect the windshield washer fluid reservoir and its pipes and connections for looseness or damage.
Having worked in car repairs for so many years, I often encounter people asking why water drips from under their sedans. The most common cause is condensation from the air conditioning. When the AC is on during summer, it absorbs moisture from the air, which then condenses and drips under the car. This is completely normal, usually occurring near the front chassis, with the water being clear and odorless. However, if the dripping is in the wrong place—such as under the engine—or if the water has colors like green, red, or blue, or a sweet smell, it could be dangerous, possibly indicating a coolant or radiator leak. Ignoring this could damage the engine. I recommend observing the dripping characteristics and timing after parking—dripping while the AC is on is fine, but if it continues after turning off the AC or the volume is excessive, it’s time to visit a professional workshop for inspection.
I remember the last time my car was dripping water in the garage, it gave me a scare. After checking, I learned it was just the normal operation of the air conditioning. When you turn on the AC for dehumidification, moisture condenses into water droplets inside the system and gets discharged, usually near the front underside of the car—a common sight especially in hot weather. But I also once encountered water with a strange odor, which turned out to be a coolant system leak. Normal dripping water is clear and odorless; if you notice excessive or murky continuous dripping, like colored fluid from antifreeze leakage, it could pose safety risks. I’ve made it a habit to glance at the ground when parking to check the water stains, addressing any issues promptly.
