What Causes Engine Shaking When a Car Wades Through Water Without Stalling?

[OLevi]

Car wading through water without stalling but experiencing engine shaking can be attributed to the following reasons: 1. High-voltage wires: When the car enters water, a small amount of water may enter the high-voltage wires, and the engine's air filter element may also get wet, leading to increased intake resistance and water entering the combustion chamber. This results in poor ignition system performance, and in severe cases, the spark plugs may fail to ignite, potentially causing the car to stall. 2. Excessive water depth: Water entering the exhaust tailpipe affects exhaust flow. If the car didn't stall at the time, it's likely that no water entered the engine. Timely stalling suggests the engine is fine. For added assurance, open the hood and remove the air filter to check if it's wet. If it's dry, no water has entered, and the car can be used safely. If the filter is wet, replace it and inspect the intake tract for water droplets or moisture.