Can Washing a Car Cause Water to Enter the Engine?
2 Answers
Washing a car will not cause water to enter the engine. The hood acts like an umbrella for the air intake during car washing or rain. As long as water is not sprayed upwards from below, it will not enter the area covered by the hood but will instead flow down from the sides and rear of the hood. Water entering the engine can cause the following issues: 1. Engine stalling: Water in the engine prevents the spark plugs from igniting, leading to the car stalling while driving. 2. Failure to start after stalling: If water enters the distributor cap, it disrupts the normal ignition function, making the engine unable to start. 3. Engine damage or hydro-lock: Due to the incompressibility of water, it can cause the connecting rods to bend or break, potentially piercing the engine block.
As someone who often helps out at auto repair shops, I can say that washing a car usually doesn't lead to water getting into the engine. The engine is well-sealed all around in the car's design, with reliable waterproofing, so normal rain or a regular water spray won't cause much issue. However, if you insist on using a high-pressure water jet directly at the air intake, water might seep into the air filter or ignition system, causing the engine to fail to start or malfunction. I recommend avoiding the temptation to spray the engine compartment carelessly during car washes, especially for older cars with worn seals. Also, don't forget to regularly check the rubber seals under the hood to ensure they're intact. Using an automatic car wash machine is a safer and more convenient option. In short, the risk is low with normal operations, but caution never hurts.
