Is it okay if the car didn't stall after wading through water?
4 Answers
Even if the car didn't stall after wading through water, there is still a possibility of water ingress or moisture. It's best to get out and check for any foreign objects in areas such as the engine compartment, engine air intake, wheels, and brake discs to avoid affecting driving safety. Here are some related points: Decreased braking performance Many cars experience significantly reduced braking performance after wading through water. This is because water enters the brake drums, reducing the friction coefficient. Therefore, after wading through water, you should not accelerate quickly but instead drive in a low gear for a while and intentionally apply the brakes lightly a few times to use the heat generated to quickly evaporate the water. Precautions: Do not drive too fast. Use a low gear to enter the water smoothly and proceed slowly to prevent water splashes from wetting the electrical parts of the engine, which could cause the engine to stall. Maintain steady pressure on the accelerator to keep the car moving smoothly with sufficient power.
I've been driving small cars for decades and have encountered situations where the car didn't stall while going through water. That time, I drove through a flooded area after rain, with water up to the wheel hubs, and the car didn't stop. I was even smug about getting through without major issues. But within two weeks, the chassis started making constant noises. At the repair shop, they found that water splash had corroded the bearings, and the wiring harness was damp and short-circuited. Not stalling in water does indicate that the engine's air intake didn't take in water, avoiding the risk of engine failure, but it can cause damage in other areas, such as water entering the brake system or accumulating in the exhaust pipe, leading to rust or malfunctions over time. So experience tells me that even if the car makes it through, you should promptly check the chassis, transmission, and electronic equipment, and it's best to wash the car to remove mud and dirt to prevent future headaches.
A car that didn't stall while wading through water may seem lucky. As long as water didn't enter the air filter, the engine won't stall, which is good news for the engine. However, from a mechanical perspective, splashing water onto chassis components can wet circuit boards or corrode suspension springs, potentially causing short circuits or noise over time. For example, as someone who knows a bit about cars, I often pay attention to accumulated water in the exhaust tailpipe after wading, as it can damage the catalytic converter; or if water enters the chassis bearings and causes rust, it may produce squeaking sounds while driving. It's advisable to drive for a while immediately after wading to let the heat evaporate the moisture, then inspect the chassis connections and tire covers. Don't neglect these checks—small oversights can turn into major repairs if ignored.
Driving through water without stalling is generally safe, but don't take it lightly. Immediately slow down and drive a short distance to ensure there are no abnormal noises. If the engine light comes on or the brakes respond slowly, get it repaired promptly. After wading, check the tires and fenders for mud blockages to prevent corrosion—just a simple wash of the undercarriage will do. This helps prevent minor issues, saving both money and hassle.
