What are the causes of water entering the engine?
3 Answers
Engine water ingress can be attributed to the following specific reasons: 1. Human-induced factors: Under normal circumstances, pay attention to wading. The water depth should not exceed the exhaust pipe, and the speed should be reduced when wading. 2. Damaged engine cylinder gasket: This is a very dangerous situation. Vehicle owners must regularly inspect their vehicles to prevent coolant from inevitably flowing into the lubrication system, which can easily cause severe damage to the entire engine. 3. Negligence during use: This is also a personal reason. Whether refueling or cleaning the engine, always ensure the engine is turned off. If water enters, do not attempt to start the engine easily.
I have considerable experience in car repair, and there are many reasons for engine water ingress. Mainly, it's due to driving through deep puddles where the water level is too high and floods the air intake, or when the car is half-submerged in heavy rain, allowing water to seep in through gaps. Aging intake pipes and damaged sealing rings also make it easier for water to be sucked in, especially when parked in low-lying areas during storms. A leaking crankcase ventilation pipe can also draw water inside. After water enters, it can damage pistons and connecting rods during engine compression, making repairs both troublesome and expensive. I recommend avoiding driving through water deeper than the wheel hub height and regularly checking the intake and sealing systems. If the engine stalls in water, do not restart it—have it towed directly to a professional shop to save significant costs. During routine maintenance, have technicians inspect key components as well; prevention is more cost-effective than repairs.
Having driven for over 20 years, I've witnessed numerous engine water ingress tragedies, primarily caused by reckless driving through flooded areas. Once water levels exceed the intake grille, trouble begins. Flooded cars during heavy rains or storms are even more perilous, especially when parked in low-lying areas of older residential complexes. Additionally, cracks in intake pipes or aged seals can draw water into the cylinders, leading to engine stalling. Water compression can cause internal engine damage, with repair costs ranging from thousands to tens of thousands. I always advise beginners: measure water depth—don’t exceed the wheel center for safety. If water ingress occurs, avoid attempting to restart; instead, turn off the power and call a tow truck. Regular maintenance checks on seals and ventilation ducts can prevent rainy-day mishaps, saving both money and peace of mind.
