What Causes Abnormal Noises and Loss of Power After a Car Drives Through Water?
3 Answers
If your car suddenly loses power but can still start normally after driving through water, it is recommended to check the oxygen sensor and the fuel filter. These components may affect the car's performance after water exposure. Introduction: Vehicle insurance, also known as motor vehicle insurance or auto insurance, refers to a type of commercial insurance that covers personal injuries or property damage caused by natural disasters or accidents involving motor vehicles. Auto insurance is a category of property insurance. In the field of property insurance, auto insurance is relatively new, as it emerged and developed alongside the advent and popularization of automobiles. Unlike modern motor vehicle insurance, early auto insurance primarily focused on third-party liability coverage and gradually expanded to include risks such as collision damage to the vehicle body. Classification: Commercial insurance is an indeterminate-value insurance, divided into basic coverage and additional coverage, with the latter not being independently insurable. Basic coverage includes third-party liability insurance and vehicle damage insurance (comprehensive coverage).
I once experienced a scary situation where my car made squeaking noises and couldn't accelerate after driving through water. Actually, this usually happens when water enters the air intake and blocks the air filter, preventing the engine from getting oxygen, leading to 'hydrolock'. At best, it causes shaking and stalling; at worst, it can bend the piston rods. The strange noises might come from boiling water in the exhaust system or slipping of the drive belt due to water. Don't underestimate flood damage—it's dangerous when water exceeds half the wheel height because the air intake is positioned low. If problems arise after driving through water, don't start the engine—I foolishly tried that time and ended up spending thousands on major engine repairs. It's best to tow it to a professional shop to check the filter and ECU, as water damage to the electronic control unit is common. Regular maintenance of seals and replacing the filter before the rainy season can save you a lot of trouble.
When the car makes squeaking noises and lacks power after driving through water, there's definitely a problem. I have experience with this—having driven old cars for decades, I've encountered it a few times. It's mostly caused by water seeping into the engine system, leading to 'vapor lock.' A wet air filter can block the air intake, starving the engine of air and causing a complete loss of power. Water splashing onto the pulley or bearings may also cause friction noises. When driving through water, maintain a steady, slow speed and avoid sudden acceleration, as this can easily allow water to enter. If you notice any abnormalities afterward, safely pull over and turn off the engine immediately. That time, I was lucky enough to tow it to a shop for inspection, where they found the air filter was clogged—fortunately, no internal parts were damaged. Repairs may take time to drain and dry the system, and parts might need replacement. Always pay attention to water depth when driving through it, and don't push your luck by crossing deep puddles.
