Can the Engine Still Start After Water Intake?

[AubreeLynn]

Engine water intake prohibits secondary ignition attempts. The impacts of secondary ignition are as follows: 1. Impact One: Absolutely refrain from attempting to restart the engine after water intake. If ignition is attempted, even with flood insurance and vehicle damage coverage, insurance companies will deny claims. 2. Impact Two: Engines operate by igniting compressed gases, whereas water is nearly incompressible. Forced ignition can lead to severe consequences such as complete bending or fracturing of connecting rods, necessitating major engine overhauls. 3. Impact Three: If only the vehicle interior is flooded without submerging the engine, and it's confirmed that no water entered the engine, the primary concern shifts from engine integrity to electronic component functionality. Short circuits caused by water exposure may fuse safety devices or damage electrical appliances upon power restoration, resulting in disproportionate losses.

[PaulRose]

I've personally witnessed the disastrous aftermath of engine water intrusion several times, and I must emphasize: never attempt to start the engine. Once water enters the cylinders, since water cannot be compressed like air, when the piston strikes it during ignition, it can bend the connecting rods or even damage the crankshaft. There was this incident during heavy rain when a friend drove through deep water, stalled, and stubbornly tried to restart—resulting in complete engine failure. The repair cost over ten thousand yuan. In general, when encountering flooded areas, drive slowly and avoid plowing through. The height of the exhaust pipe is your safety threshold. If water does get in, the first thing to do is turn off the ignition—don't touch the key or start button—and immediately call for a tow to a professional repair shop for inspection and safe handling. Otherwise, the damage could be much worse.

[SanSophie]

After driving for so many years, I must remind everyone that you should never attempt to start the engine if it has taken in water. The reason is that with water in the cylinders, the spark plugs cannot ignite the air-fuel mixture, and forcing a start can subject internal components to immense stress, leading to bent connecting rods or cracked engine blocks. When driving through water, maintain a steady speed in a low gear and avoid puddles deeper than half the wheel height. If the engine stalls due to water intake, immediately stop the vehicle, turn off the engine, and refrain from any attempts to restart it. Have the car towed to a professional facility to drain the water and inspect the electrical system and engine oil. Repair costs can range from thousands to tens of thousands, but it's far wiser than needing a major engine overhaul—safety always comes first.

[OAthena]

From daily driving experience, starting an engine after water ingress is extremely dangerous. Electrical circuits may short-circuit causing issues, and component corrosion can accelerate damage. Try to avoid waterlogged areas during rainy days, and never take the risk if the water depth exceeds ankle height. If water enters the engine, immediately turn off the ignition and wait for rescue, then have the vehicle towed to a shop for a thorough system cleaning. Prompt treatment can prevent corrosion from spreading and keep repair costs more reasonable. Family vehicles should be especially cautious to avoid risks and ensure safe journeys.