What are the impacts of a car driving through water?

[DelGarrett]

The impacts of a car driving through water include: 1. It may cause water to enter the engine, leading to issues such as insufficient power and shaking. Prolonged use under such conditions can result in deformation or even breakage of the piston connecting rod, ultimately damaging the engine; 2. It may cause the high-voltage ignition system to become damp or short-circuited due to water ingress, leading to engine stalling. The methods to handle a car driving through water are: 1. If the exhaust or intake ports have taken in water during the process, the car must be towed to a repair shop for inspection. Do not attempt to start the engine forcefully, as this may cause greater damage due to ineffective engine lubrication; 2. After driving through water, immediately remove any wrapping from the electrical components, dry the wet parts, reinstall the fan belt, and check whether any gearbox has been submerged, whether there are any obstructions between the radiator fins, whether the tires are damaged, or whether there is any debris entangled under the chassis. Clean the vehicle promptly to restore braking effectiveness.

[CadenAnn]

Last time I drove through a puddle, water got into the engine and it almost got completely ruined. Driving through water can affect many parts of the car. Water entering the engine can cause the pistons to seize, and if you try to start it forcefully, the engine will need a major overhaul, costing at least several thousand dollars. The electrical system is also prone to short circuits, the lights may not work, and if the computer module gets wet, it's even more troublesome—expensive and time-consuming to repair. The exhaust system under the chassis can rust, and if water contaminates the transmission fluid, the car won't run smoothly. Afterward, you also need to check the brakes and tires to prevent hidden water damage. If the water depth exceeds half the height of the wheels, don't take the risk—find a detour instead. Remember, after driving through water, don't immediately turn off and restart the engine; take it to a professional shop for inspection first.

[StValeria]

Driving through water can have significant impacts on a car. The most severe issue is water entering the engine, which can cause hydro-locking, requiring disassembly and repair. Water in the electrical system can lead to short circuits, potentially causing lights and audio systems to malfunction. If water enters the transmission and drivetrain, the oil may emulsify, affecting performance. Metal components in the chassis can rust when exposed to water, leading to corrosion if not addressed long-term. If the interior gets wet, carpets may develop mold and odors, impacting health. It's recommended to pass through water slowly, avoiding large splashes. Afterward, check the air filter yourself—if it's wet, don't start the engine. If necessary, consider installing waterproof components as a preventive measure.

[StHazel]

Driving through water may cause the engine to stall, and water entering the engine can directly lead to cylinder scoring, resulting in high repair costs. Moisture can cause short circuits in the electrical system, leading to brake light failures, which increases nighttime driving risks. The chassis rusts quickly, accelerating component aging. When driving through water, maintain a slow and steady speed, avoid shifting gears or stepping on the accelerator. Afterwards, fluids like engine oil need to be replaced. If the water level exceeds half the wheel height, avoid it at all costs—safety comes first.

[EmilyFitz]

The consequences of wading through water are not light, and the cost of repairing the engine can be heartbreaking, starting from at least a thousand dollars. Circuit damage can cause malfunctions in systems like the air conditioning, adding to the repair bills. Transmission repairs are even more expensive. Rust on the chassis can drastically reduce the car's resale value, making it hard to sell second-hand. Before attempting to wade, estimate the water depth; don't risk it just to save a bit on fuel—it's not worth the potential losses. Timely post-wading inspections can save you a fortune.