How to Drive Through Deep Water?
2 Answers
First, stop and observe. If the water level exceeds half of the wheel hub, do not risk driving through. Shift to a lower gear in advance. For manual transmissions, use 1st or 2nd gear; for automatic transmissions, it is recommended to use L gear to keep the engine running at high speed. While driving through water, hold the steering wheel steady and observe the path of the vehicle ahead to roughly judge if there are any potholes on the road, allowing you to prepare in advance. For manual transmissions, drivers should stay calm, control the brake and clutch properly, and avoid stalling the engine. If the engine stalls, remember not to restart it immediately.
I've been driving for thirty years, and driving through deep water is never a good idea, but sometimes it's unavoidable. The first step is to assess the water depth—use a stick or estimate visually. If the water level exceeds the center of the tires, don't force your way through; even an SUV can only tolerate water up to half its height. Drive with extreme caution, using first or second gear to maintain a slow, steady speed. Keep the throttle steady and don't let go, or water could rush into the exhaust pipe or intake, causing the engine to stall. If the engine stalls, never attempt to restart it—doing so could destroy the engine. Afterward, check the air filter and electrical system for water ingress, and it's best to have a thorough inspection at a repair shop. Preventive driving measures, such as avoiding heavy rain days and planning routes to bypass flooded areas, are smarter choices.
