Is it advisable to park in waterlogged sections?
2 Answers
It is best not to park in waterlogged sections to avoid severe consequences such as engine stalling due to water ingress. Below are some tips for driving through waterlogged areas during rainy weather: 1. Encountering water accumulation: Slow down or stop to observe. If the water level reaches two-thirds of the bumper or tire height, proceeding poses certain risks. Higher speeds increase the actual water depth the vehicle traverses, potentially allowing water to enter the cabin through the engine compartment or chassis. 2. Key precautions: Avoid stopping, shifting gears, or releasing the throttle. Do not accelerate; instead, maintain a steady speed in low gear with moderate to high throttle. Avoid driving too fast, which can create large waves or splashes. 3. If the engine stalls, do not attempt to restart it immediately: Quickly move the vehicle to a safer location with less water accumulation. Severe water ingress can allow water to enter the engine through the air filter and intake valve, proceeding into the cylinders via the intake manifold. Attempting to restart the engine may cause deformation of critical components like the crankshaft and connecting rods, leading to engine vibration or even component breakage.
Parking in waterlogged areas is really not advisable, and I made this mistake when I first started driving. Last summer during heavy rain, I tried to stop in a flooded area to check my tires, but the water level suddenly rose, causing water to enter the exhaust pipe and nearly stalling the engine. I had to call for emergency towing. Since then, I've learned never to stop in deep water because water can seep into the exhaust or intake pipes through gaps, directly leading to fuel system failure and leaving the car immobilized. Moreover, such areas are usually slippery, and if you stop and try to restart, the vehicle is prone to skidding or drifting, creating even greater safety hazards. If the water reaches the battery or control system while parked, a short circuit could even cause a fire, making the risk not worth it. Now, whenever I drive through flooded sections, I observe carefully beforehand and detour if possible. If I must pass through, I maintain a slow, steady speed and never stop midway. After the rain clears, I also regularly inspect the vehicle's undercarriage to ensure drainage holes are clear, preventing similar issues. In short, waterlogged areas require caution not only while driving but are also no-go zones for parking. I advise all drivers to make safety a habit—never take risks for convenience.