The five dangers for drivers parking over puddles Puddles may appear harmless, but just a spoonful of water inside your vehicle can cause serious damage and thousands in repair bills Puddles in the road can cause damage to parked cars (Image: Copyright Unknown ) Drivers may avoid puddles while out on the road, but many may incorrectly assume they are harmless to park over. Yet, they pose a significant risk of damage, even when the car is stationary, as puddles can lead to electrical faults, corrosion and many more issues. ‌ Chris Jevons, Car Repair Specialist at JTAPE has detailed five issues they can cause, even the shallow ones. Read more: Martin Lewis lists 'top' 12 Cash ISAs ahead of limits cut Electric system faults Chris explained: “Water and electronics are a dangerous combination. Puddles near curbs and drains can flood sections of the vehicle’s underside where wiring looms and electrical connections run. Article continues below "Even a small short circuit can disrupt entire systems, and with modern vehicles, what starts as a basic electrical fault can quickly escalate into a complex and costly repair. “To avoid damage, first up, avoid parking in puddles altogether. Even shallow ones can cause damage. Before parking, visually inspect the area, especially in low-lying or poorly drained spots. "After exposure to water, it’s crucial to check your brakes and keep an eye out for any new dashboard lights or strange sounds." ‌ Vulnerable exhaust system Chris said: “Your exhaust system is particularly vulnerable when parked in water, as it hangs low and is exposed to moisture. Water can seep into areas like joints, silencers, and the catalytic converter, accelerating rust and corrosion. "Over time, this can lead to noisy exhausts, failed emissions tests, or even holes in the system, which not only affect performance but can also result in expensive repairs and MOT failures.” Brake rust Chris explained: “Leaving your wheels partially submerged in water can quickly lead to brake components rusting or seizing. This is especially common in rear drum brakes or vehicles that aren’t driven regularly. ‌ "If you hear a loud squeal or feel dragging when you drive off, it’s a clear sign that moisture has caused damage. Ignoring it can lead to further deterioration and costly brake repairs.” Sensor damage Chris said: “Modern vehicles are packed with critical sensors located underneath the car, including those for ABS, traction control, and parking assistance. "Even shallow puddles can expose these sensitive components to moisture. If water seeps into a sensor or its connectors, it can trigger warning lights, interfere with performance, or lead to complete sensor failure." Article continues below Rust and corrosion Chris explained: “Rainwater on the roads can create a surprisingly corrosive environment, especially when it collects in puddles around the same spots day after day. "When essential metal components like brake lines, subframes, or exhaust mounts are left submerged, rust can take hold much faster than people expect. "It doesn’t take a flood, just parking in the wrong place can start a chain reaction of corrosion that affects safety and leads to costly repairs down the line.”