How long can a vehicle be started after wading through water?
2 Answers
Whether a vehicle can be started after wading through water depends on the extent of the wading. The specific situations are as follows: 1. No damage: If the electronic system and engine of the car are not damaged after wading through water, it can be started immediately. 2. Severe wading: If the engine stalls due to severe wading, the engine should not be restarted. Restarting the engine in this case may cause serious damage to the car's engine. Extended information: Reasons for abnormal noises after a vehicle wades through water: 1. Brake pads getting wet: If the vehicle wades through shallow water and water splashes onto the brake pads, it is normal to hear abnormal noises when braking. In this case, just drive normally, and the noise will stop once the brake pads dry. 2. Foreign objects between the brake pads and calipers: If the vehicle wades through shallow water and foreign objects such as plastic bags or mud get stuck between the brake pads and calipers, abnormal noises may occur when braking. This can be resolved by cleaning the brake pads. 3. Water ingestion in the exhaust pipe: If the vehicle wades through deep water and water enters the engine through the exhaust pipe, it may prevent the fuel and air mixture in the engine from burning properly, resulting in abnormal noises. In this case, the vehicle should be moved out immediately, and the engine should be cleaned. Otherwise, it may lead to engine failure or even total engine damage. 4. Foreign objects stuck in the chassis: If foreign objects get stuck in the chassis after the vehicle passes through a wading area, abnormal noises may occur while driving. This can be resolved by cleaning the chassis.
I've been driving for nearly twenty years and have seen many friends rush to start their cars after wading through water, only to end up wrecking the engine. If water enters the intake or exhaust pipe during wading, starting the engine will suck water in, which can lock up the pistons and completely ruin the engine. Remember not to start the car immediately—first, check the undercarriage and air filter for any signs of water ingress. If there's water, tow it to a repair shop. Even if there's no obvious water, let the car dry for at least half an hour before attempting to start it—keeping the car idle during this time is the safest approach. Some car models have low air intake positions, so if the water depth reaches halfway up the tires, it's best not to take the risk. When crossing puddles, always drive slowly to avoid splashing water into critical areas.
