Will a damaged outer window trim cause water leakage?
4 Answers
Damage to the outer window trim will not cause water leakage. Reasons why it won't leak: As long as the sealant around the glass is not damaged or aged, the vehicle will not experience water leakage. In fact, car windows do not rely on the outer window trim for waterproofing; they use the sealant inside the glass for waterproofing. The outer window trim only serves a decorative purpose and helps delay the aging of the glass sealant. Maintenance methods for window trim: Avoid using a high-pressure water jet directly on the sealing ring during car washing, as this can deform the seal. Also, promptly clean dust and leaves from drainage holes and grooves to prevent clogging or reduced performance of the sealing ring. Avoid exposing the vehicle to prolonged sunlight in summer and try to park in a garage.
I've been driving for almost twenty years, and if the window seal strip is damaged, it will definitely leak. This thing is like a rubber edge wrapping around the car window—once it cracks or deforms, rainwater can easily seep in. I had this issue with my old Toyota before; after heavy rain, not only was the car floor soaked, but it also grew mold, creating a terrible smell. In severe cases, water even seeped under the seats, nearly affecting the electronic components of the seatbelt buckle. Leaks don’t just ruin the interior; over time, they can cause rust or short circuits. Checking it yourself is easy: feel the seal strip for cracks and test for leaks by spraying water on the window during car washes. Don’t underestimate it—replace the seal strip as soon as possible. You can buy a matching model on Taobao and either DIY or take it to a repair shop; it won’t cost more than a hundred bucks. Prevention involves regular cleaning to avoid dust buildup that accelerates aging, ensuring driving comfort and safety.
As a homemaker who frequently takes children out, I'm particularly concerned about the risk of water leakage due to damaged weatherstrips, as it directly affects the interior environment. Water leakage is no trivial matter - when rainwater or car wash water seeps in, it leaves the carpets damp and prone to mold growth, which isn't good for family health. Especially with children sitting in the back, accumulated water can make walking slippery. I've seen cases among fellow car owners where damaged weatherstrips led to internal door rusting, making replacements more troublesome. The solution is simple: first check if the weatherstrips have cracks or looseness, then visit an auto repair shop to spend a small amount replacing them. Don't neglect regular maintenance - test the seal by spraying water before rainy day drives, and clean the weatherstrips to prevent hardening. Safety comes first, don't wait until problems arise to act urgently.
I'm the type who likes to tinker with my car, and a damaged weatherstrip definitely leads to leaks—not a big deal but quite annoying. On rainy days, water drips through the window gaps, soaking the floor mats and causing a musty smell. It’s even more obvious during car washes, with water flowing directly into the cabin. I check the weatherstrip myself for any tears or deformities. If it’s leaking, it needs fixing—replacing it is super easy: just search online for parts matching your car model, buy a new weatherstrip, and install it yourself to save on repair costs. When driving, be careful not to scrape it with hard objects to extend its lifespan. It’s just a small expense and some time—fix it early for peace of mind.
