Is it okay if the vehicle passes through water without stalling?
2 Answers
It is generally okay if the vehicle passes through water without stalling, but extra caution is still needed to ensure the accumulated water is drained completely. Additional information on the correct method for driving through water: Detour: Under normal circumstances, the safe water height is considered to be half the wheel height. It is best to detour around waterlogged sections; if detouring is not possible, try to slow down and drive carefully. Assess depth: First, determine the depth of the water. If the water does not exceed half the wheel height, it is safe to proceed; otherwise, it is not advisable to continue driving. Slow down: After entering a waterlogged section, reduce speed and drive slowly. For automatic transmission vehicles, try to use the first gear and preferably switch to snow mode to prevent wheel slippage. Continuous braking: After exiting the waterlogged section, apply the brakes several times in succession to evaporate the moisture from the brake discs to avoid affecting the vehicle's braking performance.
It's indeed a good sign that the vehicle didn't stall after wading through water, but don't naively assume everything is fine. Once, I drove through a waterlogged area during heavy rain, and the car didn't break down, making me think I'd dodged a bullet. However, within a few days, the engine started shaking—it turned out water had entered the air filter, disrupting airflow and causing uneven combustion. After such an incident, you must inspect components under the hood: feel the air filter to see if it's damp, and if so, dry it promptly or replace it; check the chassis and exhaust pipe, as standing water inside can corrode metal, leading to rust and potential strange noises from the suspension system. Also, pay attention to the electrical circuits—moisture in wire connectors can cause short circuits, triggering dashboard warning lights inexplicably. Monitor the car's condition for a few days after wading. If you notice unusual odors or a drop in power, take it seriously. Ignoring these hidden issues can compromise safety and the vehicle's lifespan in the long run. Early prevention saves you from costly repairs later.
