Is it okay if a car wades through 40 cm of water without stalling?
2 Answers
If a car wades through water without stalling, it is generally fine and causes no damage to the vehicle. Here are some precautions for driving through water: 1. Maintain a slow speed: Use a low gear to enter the water steadily and proceed slowly to prevent splashing water onto the engine's electrical components, which could cause the engine to stall. Keep the accelerator pedal steady to ensure smooth and sufficient power while driving. Avoid shifting gears, stopping, or making sharp turns midway. While driving, focus on distant fixed objects rather than the water surface to prevent visual disorientation and deviation from the intended path. 2. Do not wade blindly: Just because the vehicle ahead passes through does not guarantee your vehicle can. It's best to stop and assess the water conditions, including depth and flow rate, before deciding whether to proceed.
Having driven for so many years, I've encountered numerous water crossings. Although forty centimeters of water submerged half the wheel, the fact that the engine didn't stall indicates it's probably fine, and the engine might still function normally. However, after wading through water, the car's interior might have gotten wet, especially the electrical systems, such as wire connectors, sensors, or computer modules. Over time, rust and short circuits can easily lead to malfunctions. Additionally, chassis components like bearings and drive shafts can be affected by water immersion, leading to lubrication issues and unusual noises while driving. Last year, I drove through a puddle without stalling, but the bearings ended up wearing out. The mechanic advised early inspection and cleaning. I recommend you visit a repair shop as soon as possible to have professionals check the chassis and electrical circuits to prevent minor issues from becoming major problems. Before wading through water, it's best not to rush through; slowing down can help protect the car.
