What is the classification of vehicle water wading levels?
3 Answers
Vehicle water wading levels are classified as water-damaged vehicles, partially submerged vehicles, and fully submerged vehicles. Immediate repair is required when a vehicle has been severely water-damaged. Below is a detailed introduction about vehicle maintenance: 1. Overview: Vehicle maintenance refers to the preventive work of regularly inspecting, cleaning, supplying, lubricating, adjusting, or replacing certain parts of the vehicle, also known as vehicle upkeep. Currently, vehicle maintenance mainly includes the engine system, transmission system, air conditioning system, cooling system, fuel system, power steering system, etc. 2. Purpose: The goal of vehicle maintenance is to keep the vehicle clean and in good technical condition, eliminate potential hazards, prevent malfunctions, slow down the deterioration process, and extend the service life.
My hometown gets flooded every rainy season, so I have plenty of experience with wading capabilities. The maximum wading depth advertised by manufacturers actually refers to the height of the air intake—sedans generally handle 20-30 cm, while SUVs can manage over 50 cm. But in reality, you need to leave a margin, as water flow speed matters more than depth—a fast current can sweep away a sedan in just 15 cm of water. Hardcore off-roaders like the Mercedes G-Class with fully sealed chassis are rated for 700 mm, but you must maintain steady speed and avoid lifting the throttle. Waterproofing of electronic components is critical—my neighbor’s EV short-circuited after crossing 40 cm of water, costing 20,000 RMB in repairs. It’s best to always keep a window breaker in the trunk; water rising past the doors becomes life-threatening.
Off-road enthusiasts are well aware of the unofficial five-level classification of water fording: Level 1 is ordinary standing water, where even sedans can pass if it reaches half the wheel hub. Level 2 reaches the exhaust pipe, requiring slow movement to prevent backflow. Level 3 submerges the lower edge of the door, necessitating 4WD vehicles to engage low-range mode. Level 4 rises to the hood, a challenge only modified vehicles dare attempt. Level 5 completely submerges the roof, turning the vehicle into a submarine. My modified Wrangler, equipped with a raised air intake snorkel, has been tested to ford 80 cm, but tire traction plummets drastically, making a winch and rescue ropes essential. In reality, when headlights are submerged, water refraction severely impairs visibility, making it far more dangerous than imagined.
