Can Water Enter the Transmission of a Flooded Vehicle?
3 Answers
Whether water enters the transmission of a flooded vehicle depends on the vehicle's condition. Below is a detailed explanation regarding water ingress in the transmission of flooded vehicles: Vehicle in Motion: Generally, as long as the vehicle is still moving and the engine is running, water will not enter the transmission even if it is submerged. Although the transmission has a vent hole, the internal pressure generated while the transmission is operating prevents water from entering. Vehicle Stationary: When the vehicle is parked and the transmission is not operating, if the transmission housing is submerged in water, water can enter through the vent hole. In this scenario, the transmission must be inspected, and the transmission fluid must be replaced. If the fluid is not replaced within 4 hours, even if repairs are done three to five days later, transmission issues may still arise after five months.
As a veteran in the automotive industry, I've seen numerous cases of flooded vehicles. It's true that transmissions can take in water, which shouldn't be overlooked since they have a vent hole that allows water to seep in when levels rise, especially when water reaches above the tire level. Once water enters, the fluid emulsifies, contaminating the system and causing internal gears and bearings to rust, which affects smooth gear shifting. Repairs are no small matter—they require disassembly, cleaning, fluid replacement, and sometimes part replacements, all of which can be costly. Worse yet, if left untreated for long, the transmission can be completely ruined, affecting the entire drivetrain. Therefore, after a flood, owners should promptly tow their vehicles to a professional shop for inspection rather than trying to handle it themselves to avoid turning a minor issue into a disaster. Daily parking should also avoid low-lying areas, as prevention is the most cost-effective approach. In short, water ingress isn't uncommon, and early detection and repair can save significant costs.
Since my youth, I've loved tinkering with cars and studying various automotive issues. Waterlogged transmissions are a common problem, such as after heavy rain or flooding, where water can seep through small gaps or holes in the transmission, causing internal component corrosion. This turns the oil milky and cloudy, losing its lubricating effect, resulting in clunky gear shifts, sluggish acceleration, or even stalling. If not repaired promptly, repair costs can skyrocket to thousands and may even damage the engine. I recommend focusing on the color and condition of the transmission fluid during inspections—if it turns white or cloudy, act immediately. For prevention, avoid driving through deep water and regularly check for aging seals. Experience has taught me that small issues left unattended become big problems—timely action brings peace of mind.
