How Deep Can a Car Be Submerged Before It Can No Longer Be Driven?

[KinsleyAnn]

When a car is submerged to the level of the intake duct, it should no longer be driven. Below are the relevant details: 1. Exhaust pipe height: This is the safe wading depth. The pressure generated by the engine during exhaust is substantial enough to expel any water that might backflow into the exhaust pipe. Maintaining sufficient and stable power can prevent water from backflowing into the exhaust pipe, allowing safe passage through water at this level. 2. Half-wheel height: At this depth, water may enter the vehicle interior. As long as the car is not submerged for an extended period, water generally will not seep in. However, if the sealing strips are aged, water might infiltrate. 3. Air intake height: This is the maximum wading depth. Once water enters the air intake, it can cause the engine to stall. In severe cases, water can be sucked into the engine, leading to permanent damage. Therefore, driving is absolutely not advisable at this water level.