What Causes the Abnormal Noise After a Car Drives Through Water?
2 Answers
Possible reasons for abnormal noise after a car drives through water are as follows: 1. Brake pads getting wet: If the car's wading depth is not significant and water splashes onto the brake pads, it is normal to hear a squealing sound when braking. This situation will resolve itself as the water on the brake pads dries up with normal driving. 2. Foreign objects on brake pads: If the car wades through deeper water, foreign objects such as plastic bags, paper scraps, or mud mixed in the water may get stuck on the brake pads, causing noise when braking. In this case, the brake pads need to be cleaned. 3. Water ingestion in the exhaust pipe: If the car wades through deep water and water enters the engine through the exhaust pipe, it can prevent the normal combustion of fuel and air mixture in the engine, resulting in noise.
Abnormal noises after driving through water can be serious. My car had this issue before, mainly because water got into places it shouldn't. For example, water splashing under the chassis can wet the brake discs, causing annoying squeaking sounds when driving. Or water entering the exhaust system may cause corrosion and air leaks, resulting in hissing noises. Even worse, if water flows into the engine compartment, the belt might slip and produce rattling sounds. Long-term neglect could lead to more severe mechanical failures. I recommend slowing down and pulling over immediately after driving through water, then finding a safe spot to briefly check for accumulated water or obvious damage under the chassis. Regular maintenance with additional anti-rust treatment for the chassis can also prevent problems, saving both money and hassle.
