Several car problems can be a nuisance. For instance, car noises or fluid leakage from the cars. Speaking of car problems, have you ever encountered water leaking from under the car? Water puddles under the vehicle may be due to multiple reasons. It can be due to the car’s AC or exhaust condensation.
While AC or exhaust condensation doesn’t require any repair, some causes suggest a crucial problem and need instant repair or replacement. Let’s go through the common causes of water under your vehicle and learn the fixes.
Why is the Car Leaking Water? Causes and Fixes
When you find a water puddle under the car, the following reasons can cause water to drip:
- Air conditioning system
- Exhaust condensation
- Interior water leak
- Windshield washer leak
- Coolant leak
Some of the abovementioned common car problems may require a quick fix. However, it is essential to determine the issue before jumping to solutions. Here are the details on the causes behind water dripping under a car.
Air Conditioning System
Summer in the UAE requires a functioning air conditioning system. Since AC drains out the water at the bottom, you can find water puddles under the car. You can determine it by turning your car’s AC on.
If you find water dripping under the car in a rhythm, water may be leaking due to car AC condensation. That said, it is not an issue of concern.
Exhaust Condensation
When the air conditioner isn’t the cause of water leaking under the car, it may be car exhaust condensation. The condensation of exhaust fumes can accumulate water vapours in the tailpipe, causing water leakage under the car.
Water coming from an exhaust is also not a serious concern. However, when you find large clouds of white fumes and condensation, it indicates some internal damage. For instance, a damaged head gasket can cause coolant to mix in the combustion chamber – requiring an instant repair.
Interior Water Leak
It can be a vital problem and require immediate attention. If the car has a broken or failed part, it can cause a small flood inside the cabin. That said, it will cause water to leak under the car.
Water can leak from the trunk, footwells or door jams. Speaking of water leaks, one may not notice this water leaking until they stop the car. However, you may detect a damp scent if the water is inside the cabin. Nonetheless, you will need to repair the flooded car.
Windshield Washer Fluid Leak
The above three problems were straightforward ones. However, some may confuse windshield washer fluid leak with the water leaking under the car. That said, you can find windshield washer fluid inside the container under the hood.
This fluid can be a mixture of water. However, if the container breaks or is damaged, the fluid may leak on the ground. At first instance, you will think of it as water. If you inspect it closely, you will find a bluish shade – making it easier to distinguish it from water leaking under the car.
That said, you will need replacement of windshield washer fluid reservoir from a certified mechanic or technician.
Coolant Leak
Coolant is another fluid leak often confused with a water leak from the car. It is because of the mixture of antifreeze and water in equal proportions. Since coolant helps keep accurate engine temperature, you can check for a coolant leak when the car overheats.
Additionally, it can be due to the damaged car coolant reservoir. Inspect all the hoses and pressure caps to check for leaks from the car cooling system.
Radiator Leak
Water leaking under the car may be a symptom of a damaged radiator. Besides, water leaking from the radiator is a serious concern for drivers in the UAE due to excessive heat. It can be due to the damaged radiator cap, failed water pump or head gaskets.
Moreover, a blown head gasket can lead to the leakage of essential fluids from the car. For this reason, you need to look for fluids leaking from the car since they can cause a significant problem.
How to Fix Water Leakage under the Car
Find the fluid leaks from the car’s cooling system before you fix it. Here are all the steps you need to follow to fix the water leaking under the car.
- Identify the car fluid leak from the colours:
- Clear: Water
- Blue: windshield washer fluid
- Green: coolant/antifreeze
- Orange or yellow: coolant/antifreeze or car transmission fluid
- Pink or red: power steering fluid or transmission fluid
- Brown: fluid from gears, brakes or engine
- Black: old engine oil
- After you identify the colour, determine the car part where the leak is coming from
- Repair the leak or replace the part
Water leaking under the car can become a significant issue if not determined on time. That said, if you buy a used car in the UAE, you must check all its fluids and parts. Additionally, you can prevent major car issues with minor repairs. Therefore, always check the vehicle parts and schedule car maintenance to avoid nuisance.
Stay connected with the UAE’s leading cars blog to find out more about car problems, their causes and fixes.
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