October 5, 2022

Its a Car, Not a Pool! Why You Might Have Water in Your Car Doors

Do you hear a sloshing sound coming from your door as you make turns? You might have water in your car doors! But how does water get into your doors, and how do you get it out? Heres what you need to know.

Why Is There Water in My Car Door?

While it may sound unusual to have water in your car’s door, it’s not uncommon. Water can enter your car door in several ways and doesn’t typically cause any problems. From a heavy rainstorm to a high-pressure car wash, water runs into your car door frequently. However, it should exit quickly through a small drain at the bottom of the door.

When the drain doesn’t work correctly, water builds up and sloshes around while you’re driving. You may notice it when you open and close the door or during quick turns. If there’s enough water in the door, it can also leak onto the floorboard. Typically, water in car doors is caused by a clogged drain hole. Dirt, road debris, leaves, and even dead bugs can get into the car door and block the holes at the bottom.

If you find frequent water or water stains inside your vehicles cabin, it may not be a clogged drain. Water on the floorboards and seats can be a result of worn weatherstripping. Weatherstripping is the flexible, typically black seal on the edge of your doors and windows designed to keep water out. If the weatherstripping rots or wears, it can stop doing its job properly.

Will Water in the Doors Cause Long-Term Problems?

Trapped water in your vehicle’s doors can cause problems if left unaddressed for an extended period. At first, it may just be annoying–the sloshing sound makes it seem like you’re in a boat, not a car. However, if the water does not drain properly, it can cause the inside of the car door to rust. Rust can eat away at your vehicle and sometimes cause structural damage.

Depending on how long the drain is clogged and how often it rains, the water in your door can also build up and escape into other areas of your car. As water accumulates, it could seep into the carpet or compromise part of the electrical system. Drain the water as soon as you notice a clog to help prevent further damage.

How to Drain Water From a Car Door

If you have water trapped inside your car doors, you may be able to drain it yourself at home. Clogged door drains may seem like a big deal, but they’re usually easy to fix.

1. Locate the drain: Open your vehicle door and locate the drain holes. They are typically on the bottom edge of the door, so you may have to get on your hands and knees to find them. Check the drain holes to ensure they are clogged.
2. Clear the drain holes: Once you locate the drain, use an object such as a plastic utensil to clear away any dirt and debris.
3. Repeat: Check each door to make sure you’ve cleared all of the debris. If this is a recurring problem, repeat the process several times a year as part of routine maintenance.

When to Get Help from Car Professionals

Still not fixed? The water could be trapped in one of your vehicle’s quarter panels or rocker panels on the side of the car. Those drains are typically found on the bottom of your vehicle. If you continue to have issues with water in your doors or don’t want to attempt to clean clogged drains yourself, the professionals at your local INFINITI service center are always happy to help.

Water inside your car door means a clogged drain, and that water can damage the door and other parts of your INFINITI. But if you find water leaking inside your cabin, you could have worn weatherstripping. Shop weatherstripping, car door components, floor carpet, and other essential replacement parts online today at INFINITI Parts & Accessories, and have your order conveniently shipped right to your home.

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