What are the symptoms of water entering the air filter?
2 Answers
Air filter water ingress symptoms include: the engine experiencing poor acceleration, sluggishness, and insufficient fuel supply. If the situation is severe enough that water enters the cylinders, the engine may easily experience "hydrolock" during operation, which can exacerbate engine wear and even lead to complete failure. The air filter is a device that removes particulate impurities from the air. For piston machinery (such as internal combustion engines, reciprocating compressors, etc.), inhaling air containing dust or other impurities can accelerate component wear, making the air filter essential. The air filter consists of two parts: the filter element and the housing. Its primary requirements are high filtration efficiency, low flow resistance, and the ability to operate continuously for extended periods without maintenance.
If the air filter gets wet, the car will run abnormally. First, let's talk about the symptoms: the engine struggles to start, feeling like it's gasping for breath; noticeable shaking occurs during acceleration, sometimes accompanied by strange noises; fuel consumption may be significantly higher than usual. I remember once driving through a deep puddle on a rainy day, and the wet filter directly caused the engine to run roughly, almost stalling midway. This happens because water blocks the air passage, preventing the engine from getting enough air, leading to incomplete fuel combustion. If left unchecked, it can cause long-term carbon buildup in the engine or even damage the spark plugs. So, if you encounter a similar situation, stop and check immediately. Avoiding waterlogged roads can prevent this issue. Pay attention while driving daily—don't let small problems turn into big troubles.
