Is it a problem if the car doesn't stall after passing through deep water?
2 Answers
If a car enters deep water without stalling, theoretically, there should be no impact on the engine. However, there are too many unpredictable factors, such as water waves from passing vehicles that could splash into the air intake, or unknown underwater conditions like uneven terrain, all of which can affect the vehicle's ability to pass through. When driving through deep water, the following precautions should be taken: When driving through deep water, shift into a low gear, maintain steady throttle, and proceed slowly. If the car stalls during the process, exit the vehicle and do not attempt to restart the engine, as this could damage or even destroy the engine. Before entering the water, ensure a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. For unfamiliar sections of the road, follow the path taken by the preceding vehicle, maintaining a steady fuel supply and moving forward at a slow, constant speed. Enter the water smoothly to avoid splashing water into the engine, which could cause it to stall. Maintain steady throttle while driving and pass through the water in one go, avoiding shifting gears, stopping, or turning midway. If you notice water flow or wheel slippage while driving, stop immediately and do not force your way through. If the engine is still running, push the car out manually to prevent getting stuck deeper.
I drove trucks for over a decade when I was younger and frequently encountered flooded road conditions during heavy rains. Just because the engine didn't stall doesn't mean everything was fine—I felt lucky at the time but discovered issues later. When driving through deep water, even if no water enters the engine, it can seep into chassis gaps or wiring boxes, leading to rust or short circuits down the line. Once, after a long trip, I found the rear suspension springs had corroded and snapped, costing me unnecessary repair expenses. My advice: after every water crossing, stop immediately to inspect the wheels, exhaust pipe, and battery area, and promptly clean the chassis to prevent residual water from causing corrosion. Emphasize rustproofing during regular maintenance—it saves money and hassle in the long run. After all, a car is a home on wheels.
