How Deep Water Can Damage a Car?

[AdrianAnn]

There are three scenarios of waterlogged vehicles: water level above the exhaust pipe but below half-wheel height, water level exactly at half-wheel height, and water level above half-wheel height. Generally, water reaching exactly half-wheel height can start affecting the car. Water level above the exhaust pipe: If water only covers the exhaust pipe, promptly moving the car away is sufficient. Water covering the exhaust pipe won't be sucked back into the engine, and engine stalling is primarily caused by water entering the engine's intake system, unrelated to the exhaust pipe being submerged. Water level exactly at half-wheel height: If water reaches exactly half-wheel height, the car usually won't leak. However, prolonged immersion with aged sealing strips may cause leakage. In such cases, drive the car to a 4S shop, dismantle the interior, clean, and air-dry it. Water level above half-wheel height: If water exceeds half-wheel height, the engine may take in water, and the interior may leak. Never start the engine in this situation to avoid damaging the engine or electronic components. Additionally, insurance won't cover damages caused by attempting to start a waterlogged car.