What Causes the Change in Engine Sound After a Vehicle Has Driven Through Water?
3 Answers
After driving through water, increased noise in the vehicle could be related to water entering the bearings of the engine belt and wheel bearings. It might also be caused by water ingress into the engine, sensors, or their connectors, leading to corrosion and poor contact, which affects signal transmission and operation. It is advisable to have the vehicle inspected at a repair shop after driving through water. Other reasons for increased car noise include: 1. Low coolant level: The primary function of coolant is to dissipate heat through circulation, carrying away excess heat generated during engine operation. Insufficient coolant can lead to higher water temperatures and increased noise. 2. Tire aging: Tires, made of rubber, harden and age over time, producing noise, especially on poor road conditions where the noise transmitted to the cabin can be as loud as thunder. Additionally, the gradual wearing down of tread grooves and the appearance of fine cracks can also contribute to increased noise and affect driving safety. 3. Excessive carbon buildup: Car noise, apart from mechanical sounds from the engine, includes intake system noise, which is the aerodynamic noise produced by high-speed air passing through the air filter, intake pipe, and valves into the cylinders. This noise becomes more pronounced when there is carbon buildup in the engine cylinders, making regular carbon cleaning advisable.
I've been driving for several years and have encountered a few instances where the engine made strange noises after going through water, sounding like snoring or hissing. The main reasons could be water entering the exhaust pipe, blocking the gas flow, or water getting into the air filter, affecting the air intake. Sometimes, it can also wet the spark plugs, causing poor ignition and unusual noises. I remember one time driving through a puddle on a rainy day when the sound suddenly changed, scaring me into pulling over immediately. After driving through water, never continue driving; promptly check these areas: the air intake, exhaust system, and undercarriage components. Delaying repairs could lead to engine seizure or internal rust, significantly increasing repair costs. It's best to call a tow truck and have the car taken to a repair shop for a comprehensive inspection to avoid further damage. During regular maintenance, pay attention to the condition of seals, and avoid deep water sections during the rainy season.
As someone who enjoys tinkering with engines, I've found that abnormal sounds after a vehicle goes through water are quite common. The core issue could be water entering the cylinders, causing compression imbalance, resulting in chugging sounds or increased vibrations. If the exhaust pipe is blocked, the sound may become muffled or harsh. After driving through water, it's crucial to turn off the engine immediately and avoid restarting it to prevent hydraulic damage. I recommend opening the hood to check if the air filter is soaked; if it's dry, you can attempt to start the engine. Water can also corrode wire connectors, leading to ignition coil short circuits. For prevention, regularly inspect the vehicle's sealing performance, dry the interior promptly after water exposure, and consider installing underbody protection panels for added defense. I remember helping a friend with a similar situation once; early detection saved them from major repairs.
