What Causes Water Ingress in the Roewe RX5 Hybrid Engine?
4 Answers
Roewe RX5 engine water ingress can be categorized into two types. The most common is engine flooding, which requires promptly calling a tow truck to send the vehicle to a repair shop. The other type is caused by damage to individual components. If not addressed in time, it can easily lead to faults such as cylinder scoring or bearing seizure, and in severe cases, the engine may even be rendered completely unusable. Below is additional information: The sealing ring at the lower part of the cylinder liner is designed to prevent the leakage of engine oil and coolant. However, after prolonged exposure to certain pressures, aging of the sealing ring is inevitable. If the coolant is of poor quality, it may also have a corrosive effect, leading to leakage into the engine oil.
The Roewe RX5 hybrid engine water ingress usually has several common causes, and I have encountered similar issues while driving a hybrid car myself. For example, driving through excessively deep waterlogged sections where the water level exceeds the middle of the tires may cause water to be sucked into the engine from the air intake; or the aging or damage of the chassis sealing strips, allowing rainwater to seep in; there could also be faults in the intake manifold or air filter system, leading to water being sucked in during heavy rain. Hybrid models are at greater risk when wading because of the frequent engine start-stop cycles, and water ingress can also affect the motor and battery control modules, easily causing stalling or engine damage once it occurs. I remember last time after heavy rain, the engine wouldn't start, and upon inspection, it was due to water accumulation in the air filter box caused by leaves blocking the drainage hole. Prevention is simple: avoid driving through deep water, regularly check the chassis seals and cleanliness of the air intake, and have the mechanic test the sealing during maintenance. If a problem is detected, promptly turn off the engine and stop the car to avoid secondary damage.
In our auto repair circles, we've discussed the causes of water ingress in hybrid vehicles. The main reasons are driving through water that exceeds the depth limit, allowing water to rush into the intake system, or parking in low-lying areas during heavy rain leading to flooding. Another key issue is sealing components, such as aging hood or intake pipe gaskets, which can cause water seepage. Roewe hybrid engines are particularly vulnerable due to their lower positioning, making them prone to water accumulation. Water ingress can lead to engine stalling or even hydro-lock when gasoline mixes with water, and it's even more dangerous when the hybrid system and electrical components are damaged. We recommend driving cautiously in bad weather, avoiding waterlogged areas, checking if drainage holes are blocked, and preventing leaf accumulation. If water ingress occurs, immediately turn off the engine and arrange for towing to avoid secondary damage from restarting. Simple preventive measures can save you from costly major repairs.
I believe engine water ingress is mostly caused by driving through waterlogged roads on rainy days or parking in flooded areas. For hybrid vehicles, starting the engine when submerged can cause severe damage, as water mixing with oil may prevent the car from starting or even lead to total failure. Based on my experience, I only drive on dry roads and park on higher ground during rainy days. If water enters the engine, immediately stop at a safe location and call for assistance without tampering with the engine. Regularly replace seals and inspect the air filter as preventive measures.
