Is it okay if the car doesn't stall when driving through deep water?
3 Answers
Generally, there is no significant impact if the car doesn't stall when driving through deep water. Specific details are as follows: 1. Impact: Since water pressure is much lower than the exhaust pressure of the cylinders, as long as the vehicle doesn't stall, water will not flow backward into the engine. Therefore, there should be no adverse effects. 2. Post-water measures: Inspect the electrical system, immediately remove any wrapping from the electrical components, dry any wet areas, and reinstall the fan belt. Check if any gearboxes have been submerged, whether there is debris blocking the radiator fins, if the tires are damaged, or if there is any aquatic vegetation tangled under the chassis. Clean the vehicle promptly to restore braking effectiveness. Before confirming that the electrical system, engine components, and other parts are free of water ingress, do not attempt to start the car to avoid further damage.
I thought driving through a deep puddle without stalling was a good thing, but I learned the hard way. The puddle was quite deep, and I was relieved when my car made it through without the engine stalling, thinking I had dodged a bullet. However, a few days later, the brakes started squeaking. When I took it to the repair shop, they found water had entered the undercarriage, causing rust and damaging the brake discs, costing me a lot in repairs. Now I understand that not stalling might mean the water level was low enough to avoid the air intake, but water splashing into the undercarriage, exhaust system, and electrical connectors can lead to rust, corrosion, and potential short circuits over time. My advice is to wash the undercarriage immediately after passing through deep water and check the brakes, exhaust, and wiring connections to avoid major issues like I did. Safety first.
My car repair experience tells me that not stalling in deep water doesn't mean it's safe. If the water level exceeds the exhaust pipe or chassis, water can seep into the electrical system causing short circuits, or even corrode transmission seals leading to oil leaks. Common issues include emulsified and deteriorated fluids, as well as damp and rusted wiring. During inspection, focus on whether the air filter is wet and check for water traces on engine bay connectors. My advice is to take the car to a professional shop immediately after driving through water to clean out any accumulated water and prevent rust—don't skimp on costs and risk hidden dangers. Timely action can save future troubles and maintain stable vehicle longevity.
