Can You Continue Driving After the Car's Air Filter Gets Wet?

[Gale]

It is not recommended to continue driving after the car's air filter gets wet to avoid water entering the engine and causing hydro-lock. Below is relevant information about the air filter: 1. Function: The air filter is installed in front of the carburetor or intake pipe to filter out dust and sand particles from the air, ensuring sufficient and clean air enters the cylinders. 2. Maintenance: The filter element is the core component of the filter, made of special materials, and is a wearable part that requires special maintenance. After prolonged use, the filter element accumulates a certain amount of debris, leading to increased pressure and reduced flow, necessitating timely cleaning.

[Blakely]

I've been driving for over 20 years and have experienced a situation where the air filter got wet. After heavy rain that time, I drove through standing water, and the engine started shaking soon after. Upon checking, I found the filter completely soaked. Never continue driving in such cases! If water gets sucked into the engine, it can cause hydro-lock in the cylinders, potentially damaging the pistons, with repairs costing at least several thousand yuan. I immediately pulled over and replaced the filter myself. During routine maintenance, I always check the filter's position to prevent water accumulation; after rain, it's especially important to ensure it's dry. Protecting your engine is crucial for extending your car's lifespan - otherwise minor issues can turn into major problems, where the gain doesn't justify the loss. Now I've developed the habit of taking a quick look before driving - safety always comes first.

[Correia]

I absolutely adore my car and treat it like a treasure. Never drive if the air filter gets wet! Water entering the engine can cause major issues like bent pistons or internal component damage. I wouldn't risk my car like that. The best course is to stop immediately, turn off the engine, and check if the filter is soaked. If it's wet, replacing it with a new one costs just a few dozen bucks and is quite simple. Always go slow through puddles, and after washing, make sure the engine bay is dry. Preventing this is easy—regular car maintenance is key. Don't wait until there's a breakdown to regret it. Remember, maintaining your car is like caring for your health—an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

[StMila]

I'm quite frugal by nature. Last time when the air filter got soaked, I tried to tough it out and keep driving - big mistake! Ended up costing over ten thousand in repairs. Water entering the engine poses serious risks, potentially causing hydro lock and internal damage at tremendous cost. That's why it's best not to continue driving - stop immediately to check the filter, and replace it if wet. Doing it yourself costs just a few dozen bucks, way more economical. Daily precautions matter too: avoid deep water areas when driving, and prevent water leakage into the engine bay during car washes. From an economic standpoint, stopping temporarily means minor losses, whereas repairs can lead to major financial setbacks.