How Deep Can a Tesla Go Through Water?

[JeremiahAnn]

Water fording depth is measured at the midpoint of the wheel rim. Below is relevant information: Water Fording: Since Tesla's high-voltage battery pack has no ventilation valves and undergoes rigorous testing before leaving the factory, the entire powertrain has excellent sealing. However, this does not mean Tesla vehicles are amphibious; avoid driving through deep water whenever possible. Overview: Ground clearance is one of the key factors affecting a vehicle's water fording capability. Among Tesla's current models, the Model 3 midsize sedan has a minimum ground clearance of 138mm, the Model X midsize SUV has 137mm, and the Model S midsize car has 116mm.

[FernandoAnn]

As an ordinary Tesla owner, I’d like to share some experience. Teslas aren’t designed for deep wading—models like the Model 3 or Y typically have a wading depth of around 140 mm, just up to the bottom of the wheels. Once during heavy rain, I tried crossing a small puddle about 10 cm deep and made it safely, but anything deeper significantly increases the risk. While the high-voltage battery underneath has an IP67 waterproof rating and good sealing, water flow or debris could damage the motor or controller. Tesla’s official manual advises not to exceed 150 mm, as buoyancy or electrical faults might cause drifting or stalling. In rainy conditions, it’s best to detour or drive slowly to avoid risks—after all, repairing EV components like the battery can be especially costly. If you do wade through water, immediately check the battery area for leaks or unusual noises. Ensuring driving safety is the top priority.

[DelMolly]

I often remind my friends to drive their Teslas safely. Official data shows that most models have a wading limit of 140-150 millimeters, equivalent to half the height of a wheel. In reality, deep water can cause the car to float and damage the battery. Although the battery is well-protected in the center of the chassis, it's not a submarine. Observing water flow and depth before wading is crucial. If you encounter flooding, avoid it directly and don't attempt to cross. Teslas accelerate quickly, but increased water resistance can lead to loss of control. After starting in the rain, I drive slowly through shallow water areas, keeping it under 10 centimeters to prevent water from entering the chassis and corroding the wiring harness. Regular maintenance to check seals and prevent water seepage is essential, especially since electric vehicles have complex circuits and high repair costs. Remember this tip: if the water depth exceeds the car's sill, don't proceed. Turning to a safe area and waiting for the water to recede is the wisest choice.

[CarsonRose]

I learned something from testing Tesla's off-road capabilities. For water wading depth reference across models, the Model S can handle up to approximately 140mm. But in practice, I've tried shallow waters multiple times, like 10-12cm in post-rain creeks with no issues thanks to the IP67-rated underbody protection. Don't exceed limits to avoid triggering alarms or short circuits. It's wise to inspect the battery cooling system after wading to ensure no residual water causes rust or malfunctions.

[StNatalie]

I remember driving a Tesla in a heavy rain. The manual recommends not exceeding 150mm when wading through water to avoid risks. My Model Y can handle puddles up to 12cm deep, but anything deeper might allow water to enter the chassis and affect the high-voltage system. When wading, keep the speed slow and steady to prevent splashing waves that could damage components. It's important to clean the chassis afterward to prevent corrosion. Although Teslas are robust, water is an invisible killer—take care and avoid rushing through deep water.