How many kilometers can an engine still drive normally after slight water ingress?
3 Answers
It is best not to continue driving if the engine has slight water ingress. Here is the relevant information: 1. Filled with a large amount of water: When the cylinder is filled with a large amount of water, the engine crankshaft cannot rotate at all. Moreover, since water is incompressible, the piston has almost no space to move upward. At this point, even if the ignition switch is turned on, the starter cannot rotate, and naturally, there is no further damage to the engine. 2. Symptoms of water ingress in the engine: When there is water in the engine fuel or combustion chamber, the water is heated by the combustion heat in the cylinder and turns into steam, which is discharged from the exhaust pipe forming white smoke. If white smoke appears after the vehicle has been through water, it is highly likely that the engine has water ingress.
I've been repairing cars for twenty years, and minor water intrusion should never be underestimated. When water enters the engine and mixes with the oil, it reduces lubrication performance, leading to increased wear over time. It's hard to say exactly how many kilometers you can drive—it depends on the amount of water. I've seen cases where someone drove a mere dozen kilometers after wading through water, only to end up with rusted cylinders and bent connecting rods, costing tens of thousands in major repairs. If you suspect water intrusion, immediately turn off the engine and don't attempt to restart it—call a tow truck for inspection. Regular maintenance should also focus on waterproofing and sealing, such as periodically checking the air filter position to avoid issues during the rainy season. Safety first—don't gamble with luck.
Last time I drove through a puddle, I felt the engine was sluggish. After checking, I found out there was slight water ingress. The technician warned that continuing to drive could lead to a total engine failure. Personally, I think driving short distances might be possible, but it's very risky. For example, driving within five kilometers might barely work, but if the water contains sand or mud, critical components could seize up even faster. My neighbor didn’t listen to the advice and drove ten kilometers home, only to have the engine completely dismantled for repairs the next day. Trying to save on towing fees ended up costing more in the long run. So, if this happens, stop the car immediately and avoid pressing the gas pedal. After driving through water, always check the exhaust pipe for water marks to detect and prevent issues early.
