Prevention of water logging inside your car will prevent damage to the interior, upholstery, and electrical systems.
1. Maintain Your Car’s Seals
Check for cracks, wear, or tears on door seals and window seals. Rubber seals around the doors, windows, and trunk are designed to keep water out. If any of these are damaged, replace them immediately to avoid leaks.
Check sunroof drains (if your car has one): Ensure that the drainage system is free of any blockages. Water can ooze over into the interior when drains are clogged.
2. Address Leaks Immediately
If you note signs of water leaking into the car, such as wet carpets or dampness, examine where the leak might be stemming from and correct it immediately. Common locations where leaks occur include those areas around the windshield, doors, or sunroof.
3. Park in Safe Spots
Do not park under trees because they can clog your car’s drainage system with leaves or debris. Water collection in places where it should not be may occur when leaves or debris clog the channels leading water away from your car.
Park on high ground: If you are in an area prone to flooding or heavy rain, ensure you park your car on higher ground to prevent water from entering the vehicle.
4. Maintain the Interior
Clean the interior of your car periodically to remove dust that may settle in your car’s drainage systems, particularly at the door and sunroof openings and at the floor mat areas.
You can use moisture-absorbing products such as silica gel or moisture-absorbing special car bags, especially in high-humidity weather.
5. Apply a Car Cover
If you know you are going to leave your car outside during heavy rain or storms, invest in a waterproof car cover. It provides an extra layer of protection against water seepage.
6. Use Weatherproof Mats
Waterproof floor mats or rubber mats protect the interior carpet from water and prevent it from soaking into the fabric or padding. They are particularly useful during rainy seasons or when you track in water or snow.
7. Inspect the Windshield Wipers
Your windshield wipers should be in top shape. Dull wipers will leave water streaks across your windshield, while excessive water can drain into your car when it rains very heavily.
8. Fit Drainage Guards (for the Trunk)
For cars with a trunk, ensure the drainage system (drain holes in the trunk area) is open. Water can accumulate in the trunk area if heavy rain is falling and the drains are clogged.
9. Check for Rust Under the Car
Inspect the underside of the vehicle for rust or holes that might have allowed water inside. Small rust holes can eventually develop into large leaks if left unrepaired.
10. Dry Out Your Car After Heavy Rain
Dry out the interior of your car as soon as possible if it gets wet. Leave the windows open to allow airflow and reduce moisture build-up. Alternatively, you could use the wet/dry vacuum or hire a professional drying service to remove excess water.