Does driving through deep water without stalling affect the car?
2 Answers
Driving through deep water without stalling generally has little to no impact on the car. Since water pressure is much lower than the exhaust pressure of the engine cylinders, as long as the vehicle does not stall, water will not flow backward into the engine, so there should be no adverse effects. Correct method for driving through water: Stalling in water can cause the engine to take in water. If the car stalls, it should only be towed to a repair shop in neutral gear for cleaning. Water entering the engine is a serious issue, as it can pass through the air filter into the intake valve and then into the cylinder block via the intake pipe. In such cases, never attempt to restart the engine, as this can lead to deformation of critical components like the crankshaft and connecting rod, causing engine vibration or even breakage of parts in severe cases. Avoid accelerating when driving through water: Instead, maintain a steady speed in low gear with moderate to high throttle. Driving too fast can create large waves or splashes, increasing the actual depth of water the car passes through and potentially allowing water to enter the cabin through the engine compartment or chassis.
I believe that driving through deep water without stalling the engine does have potential impacts and should not be taken lightly. From a mechanical perspective, although water may not have entered the engine internally, it could seep into the engine compartment, electronic systems, or chassis, leading to wiring short circuits or sensor malfunctions. For example, I once drove through floodwater during a heavy rainstorm without stalling, but later noticed unusual noises upon starting the car. After inspection, it was discovered that the brake pads and electrical connectors had corroded, affecting braking performance. If ignored long-term, rust on these components can accelerate, leading to more expensive repairs. I recommend stopping as soon as possible after driving through water to inspect the vehicle, focusing on whether the air filter is soaked or if there is standing water under the chassis, and then taking it to a reliable repair shop for a comprehensive check-up to prevent minor issues from escalating.
