Does Driving Through Water Affect the Engine?
2 Answers
Driving through water can affect the engine, impairing the vehicle's braking performance and reducing engine lifespan. Below are precautions to take when driving through water. Drive at Low Speed: When driving through water, maintain a low speed, avoid stopping, shifting gears, releasing the throttle, or accelerating. It's best to pass through steadily at a low gear with moderate throttle, rather than speeding through and splashing large waves or water. Do Not Restart Immediately: If the car stalls in water, do not attempt to restart it immediately. Instead, take measures to tow the vehicle to a safe location with less water as soon as possible. Water entering the engine is a severe issue, as it can pass through the air filter into the intake valve and then into the cylinder block via the intake pipe.
I've been driving for over 20 years. Once when I drove too fast through a deep puddle, water entered the engine, causing it to stall immediately. It ended up costing me over ten thousand yuan to repair the engine. This happens because water can be sucked into the cylinders through the air intake, severely damaging internal components, commonly known as hydrostatic lock, which can destroy pistons or connecting rods. Since then, I've been extra cautious when encountering flooded areas. I always check the water depth first and only dare to pass slowly if it doesn't exceed half the height of the tires, preferably at a speed of 5-10 kilometers per hour. If I'm unsure, I take a detour. Remember, deep water can also cause short circuits in the electrical system, increasing the risk. Don't take chances with flooded areas—it's no joke, or the repair costs could be higher than replacing new parts. During regular maintenance, you can ask the mechanic to check the sealing of the intake system to prevent similar accidents.
