Can a Car Still Be Driven After Being Submerged in Water?
3 Answers
After being submerged in water, the car cannot be used immediately and requires a full inspection of all circuits. Below is relevant information about starting a car after water ingress: 1. Water level height: If the water level does not exceed the engine, because the engine's cylinders from the oil pan and the cylinder block have tight sealing performance, water damaging the engine by entering its interior can only occur if the water level remains above the engine for a prolonged period. 2. Hazards of water ingress in cars: The air resonator box is located between the air intake and the intake hose. Its function is to reduce intake noise, stabilize and smooth airflow, and prevent a small amount of rainwater from entering the combustion chamber. Its position is generally between the front wheel and the front bumper, where water can easily reach. Once the resonator contains water, a large amount of water will be sucked into the combustion chamber when the engine is started, and the incompressibility of water can cause devastating damage to the engine's connecting rods.
As someone who cares about family safety, I strongly believe that you should never drive a flooded car immediately. When the water level is high, water can enter the engine, and starting it can cause severe damage to the cylinder block. Short circuits or corrosion in the electrical system may lead to sudden failures, resulting in uncontrollable braking or acceleration, which poses significant risks. Residual moisture inside the car can breed bacteria and mold, and prolonged exposure can affect health, especially for children and the elderly who are more vulnerable. I remember last year when a friend insisted on driving their flooded car, only to find later that the air conditioning leaked, causing corrosion, and the engine was severely rusted during repairs. My advice is to tow the car to a professional repair shop immediately for a thorough inspection before considering any repairs or continued use—don't gamble with safety.
I was once a victim of a flooded car. After that heavy rain, the water level reached the seat height. I wanted to save on towing costs and tried starting the engine myself, but as soon as I turned the key, the engine made a rattling noise and stalled. Later, the mechanic found that water had entered the exhaust system, corroding the sensors and wiring; the ECU circuit board was short-circuited due to water immersion, causing frequent warning lights. The repair cost several thousand, and afterward, I was always worried about sudden stalling while driving. This experience taught me that after a flood, don't hesitate on towing fees—always contact the insurance company for towing and handling. Otherwise, secondary damage can be even more expensive and pose potential safety hazards. Even if the water level is as low as the wheels, dry the car thoroughly and carefully inspect the electrical systems before attempting to move it.
