Should a car be inspected after driving through water?
2 Answers
Small cars should be inspected after driving through water. Because after a sedan drives through deep water, it may cause short circuits in the car's wiring, poor contact, water ingress into the engine, and reduced lifespan. Air filter clogging: After water enters the air filter, it causes the air filter to clog, resulting in insufficient air intake for the engine and thus insufficient power and weak acceleration. The air filter should be removed and replaced. Exhaust pipe water ingress: When water submerges the exhaust pipe, some water may remain inside, affecting the engine's exhaust flow and consequently its power. After the exhaust gases expel the water, the engine's power will return to normal. Brake pad sticking: After driving through water, the brake pads and brake discs may rust and stick, creating resistance while driving. If the situation is not severe, the rust can be removed by the high temperatures generated during driving. If the situation is severe, new brake pads and brake discs need to be replaced.
After driving through water, I always inspect carefully because water getting into the engine or electrical system can be troublesome. Once, I drove through deep water on a rainy day without paying attention, and the engine sucked in some water. The next day, it wouldn’t start, costing me thousands in repairs. Now, after driving through water, I find a place to stop, open the hood, and check if the air filter is soaked. If it is, I let it dry or replace it. I also check under the chassis for any mud or sand residue, as leaving it can cause rust and corrosion over time. The headlights and cable connectors need inspection too, as water can cause short circuits or leaks. It’s advisable not to accelerate immediately after driving through water—driving slowly for a while helps shake off the water. In short, making it a habit to check prevents regrets later, ensuring safety and peace of mind.
