What Causes Engine Idle Vibration After Driving Through Water?

[DiJocelyn]

Air filter clogging, high-voltage wire short circuit, low idle speed, and abnormal water temperature can cause engine idle vibration after driving through water. Air filter clogging: The air filter is designed to protect the engine and reduce wear. It is generally replaced every 10,000 kilometers or so. If not replaced in time, insufficient air intake can lead to low idle speed, causing the engine to vibrate. High-voltage wire short circuit: A high-voltage wire short circuit refers to the core wire of the high-voltage wire being short-circuited, which can affect ignition and cause engine vibration. Low idle speed: The engine idle speed value is preset in the car's computer. When the RPM drops below a certain range, the car's computer will automatically adjust it. If the idle speed is too low and causes vibration, it indicates that it has exceeded the computer's control range. Abnormal water temperature: The engine operating temperature has a normal range. High water temperature can cause advanced ignition timing, changes in the air-fuel mixture, thinning of engine oil viscosity, and reduced lubrication performance. Common causes of vibration include insufficient coolant, a stuck thermostat, a non-functioning fan, or an inaccurate temperature control switch. Solutions for engine idle vibration after driving through water: Clogged air filters can be resolved by simply replacing the filter element. A high-voltage wire short circuit can be checked with a multimeter to measure resistance, and the wire with significantly higher resistance should be replaced. For low idle speed, some cars have an adjustment screw on the throttle body to regulate idle speed, while others do not. For the latter, inspect the idle speed valve, throttle body, air flow meter, vacuum sensor, and adjust the ignition timing (for cars with distributors) to increase idle speed. Abnormal water temperature can be resolved by troubleshooting the issue.