Is It Harmful If Half of the Car Tire Is Submerged in Water?
4 Answers
Generally, it is not harmful if half of the car tire is submerged in water, as long as water does not enter the interior of the vehicle. If water enters the interior and remains for a certain period, it may cause short circuits and damage electrical components. In case of water submersion, promptly open the hood, disconnect the battery, and drain the water by methods such as using a high-pressure air pump to blow it dry or allowing it to air-dry naturally. Avoid starting the engine under any circumstances. There are three scenarios of car submersion: 1. Half-wheel height: When water reaches half the height of the car's wheel. If the seals are intact, water usually does not enter. However, if submerged for an extended period or if the seals are compromised, water may seep in. 2. Submersion up to the floor mats: This is serious and can damage the engine and electrical systems. Most of the time, if the water level does not exceed the cabin floor, the damage is minimal. 3. Submersion up to the exhaust pipe: The car can still drive at a low gear with steady speed. When the engine is running, it forces exhaust gases out, creating higher pressure inside the exhaust pipe than the external water pressure. Thus, even if the exhaust pipe is submerged, the engine will not stall. In this situation, the car should be driven in a low gear at a steady speed to pass through. In low gear, the engine has sufficient power to overcome additional resistance.
Last time I parked my car, it happened to be in a low-lying area. During a heavy rainstorm, the lower half of the tires were submerged in water for a full day and night. Upon later inspection, I noticed some rust on the wheel rims and fine cracks on the tire sidewalls. Waterlogged tires are indeed problematic, primarily because prolonged soaking accelerates rubber aging, especially as impurities or pollutants in the water can corrode the materials more easily. If this happens frequently, the tire lifespan will be significantly shortened, increasing the risk of blowouts. Additionally, water ingress in the wheel hub area may damage bearings and valves, affecting balance. I recommend moving your car to a dry area as soon as possible, rinsing the tires thoroughly, and drying the wheel rims and tire sidewall gaps with a cloth. It's best to check tire pressure and wear conditions to ensure safety. When parking, try to avoid low-lying areas, especially during flood seasons.
I remember last summer during the flood, my car was parked by the roadside with water reaching halfway up the tires. I didn't pay much attention at the time, but after driving for two weeks, I noticed slight shaking when turning. After towing it to the repair shop, I found out that the inner side of the wheel rim had rusted, which also affected the braking system. Waterlogged tires pose significant hidden dangers, as water can seep into the wheel hub gaps, leading to metal corrosion over time, and brake discs are prone to rust and sticking. Short-term water exposure might seem harmless on the surface, but long-term or repeated soaking carries serious risks. Especially in urban areas, rainwater contains chemicals that are highly corrosive. When inspecting, don't just look at the tires; also check if the wheel rims, valve stems, and suspension connections are intact. Early treatment is crucial to prolong the lifespan of these components.
If half of the tire is soaked in water for a short period, it's usually not a big issue. For example, my tires often get wet after car washes, but drying them promptly is sufficient. The key is to check the rims for any water stains or rust marks, as metal parts are prone to corrosion. If the tire sidewall is submerged for more than half a day, the rubber may harden and age. It's advisable to drive the vehicle immediately, as the friction heat will help dry the tires; afterward, use compressed air to blow dry the wheel gaps. Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure proper tire pressure and avoid potential hazards.
