What are the symptoms of a wet air filter?
2 Answers
If the air filter gets wet, it can cause issues such as poor engine acceleration, sluggish performance, and insufficient fuel supply. Air conditioning maintenance: When using the air conditioning for the first time in summer, it's essential to inspect the system. Check the refrigerant via the reservoir, whether the cabin air filter is too dirty, and if there are any foreign objects in the radiator. If water enters the cylinders severely, the engine may experience "hydrolock" during operation, which can accelerate engine wear or even lead to complete failure. Air conditioning cleaning precautions: Regularly replace the cabin air filter to prevent moldy odors. Additionally, clean the condenser periodically, and for thorough cleaning, remove the radiator.
Last time during heavy rain, I tried driving through a waterlogged area, and the air filter ended up getting soaked. It was a terrible experience. At first, the engine struggled to start—I had to turn the key multiple times before it barely fired up. The engine sounded like it was gasping for air, with noticeably reduced power and unresponsive throttle. After driving for a while, it even started shaking, as if protesting against lack of 'food.' Worse, if water enters the combustion chamber and wets the spark plugs, the engine may stall. If left unrepaired for too long, the pistons could get damaged, and repair costs would skyrocket. So, if you notice anything unusual, don’t force it—find a safe spot to stop immediately and check the air filter box. If it’s wet, replace it to prevent water from flooding the engine and save yourself a lot of trouble. Drive extra carefully during the rainy season—don’t make my mistake of plowing through puddles. Keeping the intake system dry is the way to go.
