Will the window circuit have problems if left open and rained on overnight?
2 Answers
Leaving the car window open and exposed to rain overnight can generally affect the vehicle's window lift circuit. Here is an introduction to water-related vehicle issues: 1. Definition of a water-damaged vehicle: A vehicle begins to accumulate water, and internal components suffer damage due to water exposure, with water-damaged vehicles classified into specific flood levels. 2. Classification of water damage levels: Level 1 - water just reaches the vehicle's chassis; Level 2 - water reaches halfway up the wheels; Level 3 - water almost completely submerges the tires; Level 4 - water reaches the engine hood; Level 5 - water completely submerges the engine hood; Level 6 - water submerges the roof.
I've been through a similar situation where my car window was left open overnight in the rain – quite distressing. The next day, I noticed the window regulator was a bit sticky. After some quick research, I learned that rainwater might have seeped into the door panel, where the regulator's circuitry and motor are located. Prolonged water exposure can lead to short circuits, rust, or component corrosion. For instance, waterlogged wire connectors can oxidize, causing fuses to blow and rendering the window inoperable; water entering the motor can cause rust, making gear movement rough with screeching noises, or even permanent damage. I didn't address it promptly back then, and eventually, the motor seized, forcing me to replace it at a repair shop. My advice: if this happens, avoid operating the window immediately. First, park the car in a dry place for several hours to ventilate or use a hairdryer on low heat to dry the door interior. Cultivate the habit of closing windows and consider installing a window reminder to prevent such issues proactively.
