Will the car parked outside get flooded during a heavy rainstorm?
3 Answers
If the water level rises and submerges more than half of the tires, the engine may get flooded. Below is an introduction to the consequences of starting a flooded car: Water level height: If the water level does not exceed the engine, since the engine's cylinder and block are tightly sealed from the oil pan, water can only enter and damage the engine if the water level remains above the engine for an extended period. Hazards of a flooded car: The air resonator box is located between the intake port and the intake hose. Its function is to reduce intake noise, stabilize airflow, and prevent a small amount of rainwater from entering the combustion chamber. This component is usually positioned between the front wheel and the front bumper, making it easily reachable by rising water. Once the resonator is filled with water, a large amount of water can be sucked into the combustion chamber when starting the engine. The incompressibility of water can cause catastrophic damage to the engine's connecting rods, which is the fundamental reason for emphasizing not to start the engine when the car is flooded. The starter is typically installed at the lower end of the engine block and is easily submerged. Unlike the engine, the starter lacks high airtightness, allowing water to quickly penetrate its interior. Starting the engine under these conditions may cause an internal short circuit in the starter, resulting in burnout.
I remember last summer after a heavy rainstorm, I went to drive and found the passenger side carpet was soaking wet, almost dirtying the car interior. Actually, cars parked outside can get water inside, especially when the door seals of older cars age or the sunroof drainage holes get clogged. Rainwater can seep in through tiny gaps. I later found out through inspection that neglecting regular maintenance of those rubber seals and small holes over time makes leaks more likely. It’s recommended to clean the sunroof drainage channels every quarter when washing the car and park on higher ground to avoid puddles, which can prevent trouble. Also, if the wiring harness connectors in the engine bay get wet, it could cause a short circuit and lead to malfunctions. So after heavy rain, it’s best to quickly check the dryness of the undercarriage as a precaution. In short, preventive maintenance saves repair costs, and safe driving comes first.
I always take great care of my car like it's a treasure. Before parking on rainy days, I make sure to glance around the surroundings. Parking outdoors poses a high risk of water ingress, especially if the door seal strips are worn, the doors aren't shut properly, or the sunroof drainage tubes are clogged, allowing rainwater to seep in. Preventing this issue isn't difficult: avoid parking in low-lying areas to prevent flooding, quickly check the door seal strips for any damage after parking, regularly clean the roof drainage holes with a soft brush to avoid blockage by leaves or debris. Additionally, when the interior is damp during heavy rain, don't start the engine immediately; ventilate for a few minutes first to dry out the electrical circuits. These small habits have helped me avoid multiple water ingress incidents, saving both money and hassle. Regular attention and maintenance mean fewer car troubles down the line.