What Causes a Vehicle to Stall When Driving Through Water?

[McMiranda]

It is strictly prohibited to attempt a second start without any treatment after a car stalls due to water immersion. Although the engine may start normally, water has already entered the engine cylinders through the exhaust pipe backflow. The engine's protection system causes the vehicle to stall. Even if the engine is later repaired, a second start significantly reduces its lifespan and increases the likelihood of malfunctions. Ultimately, there are only two outcomes: replacing the engine or selling the car. The reasons for stalling when driving through water are as follows: Moisture or water ingress causing a short circuit in the high-voltage distribution system, leading to stalling: This is relatively common. The water may appear shallow, and the car seems capable of passing through, but stalling occurs, usually due to splashing water. Water entering the exhaust pipe: The exhaust pipe is positioned low, and if the water level rises above it, the engine stalls due to inability to exhaust. Water entering the air intake: This occurs when water reaches the air filter, causing stalling. This situation is less common and usually happens only when the water level is relatively high.