steam from car hood/bonnet when raining
 

Hi,

Just curious as to whether any other accent owners have experienced the same phenomenon? Since I've had my 1999 accent (just over 2 years now) I've noticed steam rising from the surface of the car bonnet (the "hood" for those of you in North America) whenever it is raining and I'm stopped in traffic.

Fluid levels are fine with no sign of leakage from the cooling system. The temperature display is always within normal range. The steam is obviously caused by the cold rain hitting the hot metal of the bonnet/hood. What I'm curious about is whether this is normal or should I be concerned?

I'd be interested in hearing from anyone else who has experienced the same thing.

Thanks

RE: steam from car hood/bonnet when raining
 

Well, I have never really watched for that sort of thing, but I have seen it occasionally on cars around me when it is cold outside and raining. The heat from your engine warms the hood and the rain evaporates when it hits. I take it you live in a cooler area? Anyway, I would not worry about it at all...as long as it doesnt smell funny. If the steam smells like maple syrup then you have a problem. Otherwise, relax. If it bothers you or is distracting, look into getting heat shield to line the underside of your hood (bonnet). It looks like padded aluminum foil, and will stop the heat so the metal doesnt get so hot. Good luck.