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Water Dripping Under The Car

Clear, odourless water under the front passenger area after using the air conditioning is normal condensation.

Normal risk

Usually harmless. Check only if the liquid is coloured, oily or smells.

Short answer · Is water dripping under my car normal?

Yes, if it is clear, has no smell and drips near the front passenger footwell after using the air conditioning. That is condensation draining from the AC. Water from the exhaust on a cold morning is also normal. If the liquid is coloured, slippery or sweet-smelling, it is another fluid.

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Safe checks you can do

  1. Touch and smell the liquidPlain water has no smell and is not slippery.
  2. Check where it dripsNear the passenger footwell is AC condensation; at the exhaust tip is condensation from the exhaust.
  3. Check the cabin floorWet carpets mean a blocked AC drain.

Questions that narrow it down

  1. Was the air conditioning on?Condensation is normal then.
  2. Is it coloured or sweet-smelling?Then it is likely coolant.
  3. Is the passenger carpet wet?A blocked drain sends water inside.

Possible causes

Listed without ranking. Use the questions above to see which ones fit your car.

  1. Air conditioning condensationNormal.
  2. Exhaust condensationNormal on cold starts.
  3. Blocked AC drainWater inside the car.
  4. Coolant or washer fluidColoured or smelling liquids.

Questions about Water Dripping Under The Car

How much water is normal?

On a hot day with the AC on, a puddle of noticeable size can be normal.

Why does water drip from the exhaust?

Burning fuel produces water vapour, which condenses in a cold exhaust.