How deep does water need to be to affect a car?
2 Answers
Water as shallow as 20 centimeters can affect some cars, while for vehicles with higher ground clearance, water up to 30 centimeters deep may cause issues. Water can backflow into the engine through the exhaust pipe, leading to stalling or even engine damage. When driving through flooded roads, it's advisable to use a low gear and proceed slowly. A crucial reminder: never lift your foot off the accelerator when crossing waterlogged areas, as this can create strong suction in the exhaust system that normally expels gases during acceleration, potentially drawing water into the engine. Here are some additional tips: 1. Towing assistance: If your car gets flooded, do not attempt to restart it as insurance won't cover such damage. It's best to call for towing service. 2. Check license plates: Verify if your license plates have been washed away. 3. Contact your insurer: Immediately notify your insurance company to file a claim, follow their procedures, and ensure you report the incident within 24 hours. 4. Prompt repairs: Arrange for repairs as soon as possible after water exposure. 5. Avoid restarting: If your engine stalls during water crossing, never attempt to restart it.
I personally experienced this when driving through a flood last year, and even 20 cm of water depth scared me. I had just passed a small puddle when the water level surged over the threshold, about 10 to 15 cm deep. I could hear the exhaust system gurgling, and the car started to feel sluggish. If it had been deeper, say halfway up the wheel hub—around 20 cm—water would have flooded the engine bay, potentially soaking electrical components or short-circuiting the ECU. I almost stalled the engine and got into an accident. Don’t take standing water lightly when driving, especially on rainy days. If the water level is above ankle height, don’t force your way through. After stopping, it’s best to pop the hood and check if the air filter is wet. Post-flood, your car might develop odd smells or AC failures, so wash it promptly to remove sand and debris—safety first, after all.
