If you’ve recently noticed water around your car, it could be a sign of a leak. This can be alarming. However, you can easily avoid it.
There are several common reasons why cars might leak water. In this blog post, we’ll look at some of the most common causes and how to identify and fix them.
Sunroof Leaks
Sunroof leaks are almost always a bad thing because they can be difficult to diagnose and are particularly irritating since there’s water involved.
If your vehicle has a sunroof, it could be the primary suspect in a water leak. You may notice water dripping directly from the sunroof, or a faulty seal may be the cause. But the most common cause of a roof leak is a clog in the drainage system.
Open your sunroof and look for the drain holes in both front corners. Those tubes run through the door pillars and drain through to the rocker, but over time, these tubes can clog, allowing water to leak inside the car and make for a wet headliner, carpet, dash, and more.
If water enters your vehicle through a closed sunroof, it’s because of clogged drain holes that are sent to tubes and move to the bottom of your vehicle, where it is ultimately released.
Sunroofs are one of the most common causes of car leaks, so if you suspect yours is leaking, make sure to check for blocked drains and inspect seals for any damage.
Leaking Windows
Rainwater can enter a vehicle through the windows and windshields by seeping through the weatherstripping and black rubber seals that border the glass surfaces.
Over time, these seals can develop gaps, which may lead to water leaking into your car. In addition, if a windshield has been installed by an inexperienced installer, this can lead to leaks as well.
If you believe your car is leaking water due to window or windshield issues, it’s important to seek professional help right away in order to avoid further damage or costly repairs.
Clogged Drain
If the evaporator drain is clogged, it can cause water to back up and drain into the cabin.
Dirt, leaves, and other debris can block the drain holes and cause water to leak inside the car. It’s also possible that the cowl drain hole is clogged, which can lead to water leaking into the car.
To prevent this from happening, make sure to regularly check and clear any blockages in your drains.
Air Conditioner Leaks
Air conditioner leaks can be caused by a variety of issues, such as plugged drain lines and filters, damaged components, low refrigerant levels, and even a leaking evaporator core. Additionally, a clogged air filter or clogged evaporator drain can also be the culprit.
When the refrigerant level is low, it can cause the evaporator coils to freeze up and lead to excessive water leaks. The air conditioner also acts as a dehumidifier when running, so any moisture that it suckers out of the air will come out through the drain hose.
To prevent AC leaks, make sure to check for any signs of wear and tear on your components and regularly inspect your filters and drain hoses.
Coolant Leaks
Coolant can leak from a vehicle that is not running because when the engine is off, the coolant is no longer under pressure and can escape.
A leaky or blown head gasket is often what causes coolant to leak internally, forming a seal around the combustion chamber.
Other potential causes of coolant leaks include a blown radiator hose, a bad hose clamp, a warped head gasket, or even a failing water pump.
The water pump is responsible for circulating coolant throughout the car’s cooling system, so if it is not working correctly, it can cause coolant to leak.
Additionally, a faulty header tank cap or radiator cap can also lead to coolant leaks if the rubber gasket on it is damaged or has come apart.
Physical damage from bumps and scrapes on the road can also be a cause of coolant leaks, so it’s important to regularly inspect your car for any signs of damage.
Radiator Leaks
Radiator leaks are one of the most common causes of water leakage in cars. When the radiator gasket or cap wears out, the level of coolant in the radiator can drop, which can cause the engine to overheat.
Corrosion within the radiator is another common culprit; as the tubes weaken over time, sediment can get trapped and cause leaks. Additionally, a stuck or faulty radiator cap can lead to water leakage. Rust inside the radiator, holes from debris, and old copper pipes with soldering defects can also be to blame.
If you notice a green puddle of coolant under your car after turning it off, it’s likely a sign of a radiator leak, which should be addressed quickly to avoid further damage to your vehicle.
Leaky Hoses
Leaky hoses can be caused by a number of issues, from a worn hose to a cracked radiator. If you notice your car is leaking water, it’s important to act quickly and get it towed to a mechanic.
A damaged or corroded hose can lead to engine damage and should be repaired as soon as possible.
Leaking Water Pump
The water pump is an integral part of your car and can be the source of several leaks. When it’s time to replace the water pump, coolant leakage is a common sign.
The water pump is responsible for circulating coolant throughout the engine, and if the gaskets dry up or a seal or hose becomes worn out, it can cause the water pump to leak.
In some cases, the bearings of the water pump may start to wear out and cause seepage from the weep hole. If you notice any coolant leaks coming from your vehicle, it’s important to take a look at your water pump and replace it if necessary.
Leaking Windshield Seals
The seal between the glass and the vehicle’s body is often vulnerable, with unnoticed pinholes or skips in the sealant being potential sources of the leak.
If you believe your windshield is leaking, it is important to inspect the sealant for any gaps or holes that may need to be resealed with a pliable sealant. In addition, worn rubber seals around windows and doors can also be a source of leaks.
Taking preventative measures with timely inspections and maintenance can help reduce the chance of water entering your vehicle.
Leaky Door Seals
Leaky door seals are also a common cause of water leaks in cars. The rubber seals around the edge of the door can sometimes be damaged or perished, allowing water to track down the front of the frame.
Your doors also feature a rubber membrane on the inside to keep them waterproof, and if this membrane dries out or peels away, water can leak into the car. Additionally, if the seal cracks or is damaged, which is common in older cars, then it can let in water.
Replacing the seal is necessary to prevent any further leaking.
Chris Miller is an auto journalist who specializes in reviewing new cars and providing helpful advice on family vehicles. He has a passion for cars and enjoys sharing his knowledge and expertise with others.
