How to Detect Water Ingress in the Engine?
2 Answers
Methods to detect water ingress in the engine: 1. Engine oil condition: Normal engine oil should not be milky white. Pull out the oil dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it, and then pull it out again. If the color appears whitish, it may indicate water ingress, necessitating an oil and oil filter change. 2. Inspect the air filter: The air filter is a device used to remove tiny impurities from the air. Only filtered air is sent to the engine. If noticeable water marks are found on the air filter, it is highly likely that water has entered the engine. If there is a significant amount of water ingress but it does not affect normal driving, though the engine may sound louder, it could mean there is a small amount of water in the oil or fuel, requiring an oil change and cleaning of related engine components. If there is substantial water ingress and the engine has been affected but the car has not been started, thus avoiding engine damage, the water must be completely drained, the interior cleaned thoroughly, reassembled, and the oil replaced. However, the electrical system may remain unsafe.
As a veteran driver with 20 years of experience, my expertise tells me that detecting engine water ingress requires careful observation. After driving through deep puddles post-rain, the engine is prone to water intrusion. When inspecting, first turn off the engine and park. Open the hood, pull out the dipstick to check the oil quality; if it appears milky white or resembles a mixture of oil and milk, water has likely mixed in. Then start the car and listen for sounds—if there's a sputtering noise or difficulty starting, there's an 80% chance water has entered the cylinders. Check the air filter; if it's wet or muddy, replace it immediately. Also, sniff around the engine area—if you detect a sour or chemical odor, the situation is more dangerous. The biggest risk is attempting to restart the engine, which could bend connecting rods or damage pistons. It's recommended to tow the vehicle to a professional shop to check for diagnostic trouble codes. Always drive slowly through water, ensuring the depth doesn't exceed one-third of the tire height—safety first.
