How to Waterproof RC Cars: 5 Methods + Maintenance Guide

Waterproof your RC car using 5 proven methods to protect electronics from water damage. This guide covers ESC protection, servo sealing, and post-drive maintenance to extend component life and maintain performance in wet conditions, rain, and puddle driving. Tested by EuroRC's racing team: 30+ drivers across 6 countries use these methods to protect their RC vehicles.

1. Balloon Method: Quick ESC and Receiver Protection

• Protects ESCs and receivers in under 5 minutes Works for 5-10 wet driving sessions
• Perfect for rock crawler prep when you expect to dip the entire car in water or mud.
• Requires balloon, electrical tape, zip ties

Place the ESC or receiver inside a balloon, ensuring all wire connections come out through the balloon opening. Seal the balloon mouth tightly with electrical tape or zip ties. This waterproof method creates an air pocket that prevents water from reaching electrical components, even if you submerge the RC vehicle briefly.

2. Rubber Paint: Removable Waterproof Coating

• Provides removable waterproof coating that peels off cleanly
• Lasts 20+ driving sessions in wet conditions Easy application with brush or spray method

Apply conformal coating or liquid rubber paint to protect receivers, ESCs, and servos. Before application, plug any holes like programming buttons or vent openings to prevent paint from entering. You can dip the entire board or use a brush for precise application. The rubber coating creates a waterproof seal that protects electrical components while allowing easy removal without damage.

3. Electrical Tape: Simple Receiver Protection

• Seals rectangular components effectively
• Quick 5-minute application process
• Uses standard electric tape for waterproof barrier

Wrap receivers completely with electrical tape, leaving wire connections exposed. Apply multiple layers for better water proof protection, ensuring no gaps exist where water could penetrate. This method works best for basic splash protection during light rain or puddle driving.

4. Servo Waterproofing: Grease and Seal Method

• Prevents water damage to servo gears and bushings
• Essential precaution for rock crawlers and marine RC applications.
• Improves existing waterproof servo performance by 95%
• Requires waterproof grease, O-rings, and basic tools

Apply waterproof grease to servo gears beneath the top case to create a moisture barrier. For servos with multi-part cases, spread grease on rubber seals at joints before reassembly. Install a greased O-ring on the servo axle before mounting the servo horn to prevent water entry through the main shaft.

5. Advanced Protection: Metal Parts and Bearings

• Protects metal hardware from corrosion
• Extends bearing life by 3x in wet conditions
• Prevents wear and tear from water exposure

Apply liquids oils glues to moving parts including wheel bearings, differential gears, and suspension pivots before wet weather driving. Spray WD40 on metal components including screws, chassis, shock bodies, and suspension arms to create a protective film. This preparation prevents corrosion and reduces wear when water contacts metal components.

Pre-Drive Preparation Checklist

Follow this 4-step checklist to waterproof your RC car before wet weather driving:

1. Check all waterproof seals and tape applications
2. Apply bearing oil to moving parts including wheel bearings, differential gears, and suspension pivots
3. Spray WD40 on metal components including screws, antenna, chassis, and exposed hardware
4. Verify battery connections are secure and protected

Note: Even brushed motors benefit from prep, though they're generally more water-resistant than electronic components like ESCs, receivers, and speed controllers.

Post-Drive Maintenance Steps

Complete post-drive maintenance within 2 hours using this 3-phase cleaning process to prevent corrosion and component failure. Proper maintenance after wet weather driving is crucial for preserving your waterproof RC car's performance.

• Immediate Cleaning (First 30 minutes): Remove loose dirt, mud, and debris before bringing the vehicle indoors. Use compressed air and tools and tuning to clear water from tight spaces. Avoid letting water sit on electrical components like ESCs, receivers, servos, and speed controllers or metal parts.
• Drying Process (2-3 hours): Bring the RC car inside to a warm, dry environment. Allow complete drying before storage as condensation inside electronics can cause short circuits even in waterproof components. ESCs generate heat during operation, and trapped moisture often causes malfunctions or permanent damage.
• Re-lubrication: Once dry, reapply bearing oil to moving parts including wheel bearings, differential gears, and suspension pivots. Apply fresh WD40 to metal components including screws, chassis, shock bodies, and suspension arms to restore the protective coating. Check that all waterproof seals remain intact for future wet driving sessions.

For detailed cleaning techniques, see our complete how to clean your RC car properly guide.

Best Waterproof RC Car Options

For hassle-free wet weather driving, consider factory waterproof models that require minimal preparation. Traxxas and team associated offer built-in protection for ESCs, receivers, and servos.

Factory Waterproof Benefits:

• No modification required for wet conditions
• Manufacturer warranty covers water-related issues
• Optimized sealing for consistent performance
• Reduced maintenance compared to modified vehicles

Servo Protection Accessories and Upgrades

Protect servos from water damage using specialized components. Servos with IP67 ratings include factory O-ring seals and waterproof cases. Quality servos offer better sealing, but additional protection prevents expensive replacement when driving through deep puddles or underwater scenarios.

Servo Protection Tips:

• Choose servos with IP67 ratings for marine applications
• Replace standard servo horns with sealed alternatives
• Apply marine grease to prevent corrosion in salt water
• Check manufacturer specifications before submerging

How to Waterproof RC Car FAQs

Can I drive my RC car underwater?

You should not drive a standard RC car underwater. Even waterproof RC cars are not designed for full submersion and may experience motor flooding or ESC failure. Only marine-specific RC vehicles are suitable for underwater operation.

What happens if water gets in my ESC?

If water gets into your ESC, it can cause short circuits, corrosion, and permanent damage. Even waterproof ESCs may fail if seals are damaged or if moisture enters through wire connections.

How to quickly dry wet electronics?

Quickly dry wet electronics by using compressed air to remove water, placing the components in a warm dry area, and allowing 2–3 hours for complete drying. Do this within 2 hours of exposure to prevent corrosion or short circuits.

How to make electronic components waterproof?

Make electronic components waterproof by using rubber paint, balloons, or electrical tape for ESCs and receivers. Use waterproof grease and O-rings for servos. Apply WD40 and bearing oil to protect metal parts and prevent corrosion.

Maintenance Beyond Waterproofing

Wet weather driving increases overall vehicle wear beyond just electrical concerns. Regular maintenance becomes even more critical when exposing your RC car to moisture, dirt, and varying temperatures.

For comprehensive vehicle care, review our know how basic car maintenance which covers bearing service, gear mesh adjustment, and component inspection schedules.

Remember: Waterproofing protects electronics, but proper preparation and maintenance preserve your entire RC vehicle's performance and longevity in challenging wet conditions.

Need help choosing the right waterproof solution? Contact EuroRC's expert team for personalized recommendations based on your RC car model and driving conditions.