Precautions for Driving Through Water: Is Idling Necessary?
3 Answers
Precautions for driving through water require idling. Below is an introduction regarding driving through water: 1. Origin: During the rainy season and typhoon season, road water accumulation or flooding frequently occurs, especially in low-lying areas and underpasses, which are quite common. Therefore, extra caution must be exercised when driving through these areas, otherwise, momentary negligence may cause severe engine damage. 2. Location: The air intake of most vehicle engines is positioned approximately above or at the center of the front bumper. If the water level approaches the bumper area, water can easily be sucked into the engine, leading to damage. Since water is incompressible, when it enters the cylinder, it creates excessive pressure, causing the connecting rod to bend or even break, and potentially rupturing the engine block. 3. Judgment: To determine a safe water depth for the vehicle, it's best to use the wheels as a reference. The midpoint of the wheel's center downward serves as the benchmark. If the water level exceeds this benchmark, do not attempt to drive through the water.
As a seasoned driver with years of experience, I always exercise caution when encountering waterlogged roads during heavy rain. Driving through water absolutely requires idling forward—maintaining low RPMs and proceeding slowly at a steady speed is the golden rule. Never rush by stomping on the accelerator, as the resulting waves can flood the exhaust pipe and cause the engine to stall. I once lost thousands in repair costs this way. Ideally, water depth shouldn’t exceed half the tire height—always step out to check beforehand or follow the tracks of the car ahead. Avoid sudden stops or gear shifts while crossing. Afterward, immediately inspect the undercarriage and brake system, removing sludge and water to prevent rust. These habits have kept me trouble-free for over 20 years of driving. A special reminder to new drivers: safe driving comes from accumulating experience through attention to detail.
Having worked in an auto repair shop for many years, I've witnessed numerous cases of vehicles being totaled after water exposure. Maintaining idle speed while moving through water is crucial: the reason is simple—water is incompressible, and high-speed driving can cause water to backflow into the exhaust pipe, leading to stalling or even hydro-lock engine damage. Technically, it's recommended to shift into a low gear and pass through at a steady speed, keeping the RPM around 1500. Always confirm beforehand that the water depth does not exceed the height of the air intake, roughly below the center point of the tires. After driving through water, immediately check if the air filter is damp; replace it if found wet. Regularly inspecting seals and electrical wiring can prevent corrosion—these small measures cost little but effectively protect the vehicle's lifespan.
