What is the method for driving an automatic transmission car through water?
2 Answers
Automatic transmission cars have the same key points as manual transmission cars when wading through water deeper than the exhaust pipe. Here are the relevant precautions: 1. Pay attention to visibility: If visibility is unclear, stop the car. Driving in heavy rain with unclear visibility is the biggest hazard. Even with the wipers swinging at high speed, they cannot clear the rainwater on the windshield, making it impossible to see ahead. In this case, it is best to quickly pull over to the side of the road and wait, while turning on the hazard lights. 2. Prevent water from entering the exhaust pipe: When passing through waterlogged sections, observe the driving conditions of other vehicles to ensure avoiding deep pits, traps, and other obstacles. When the water level submerges the exhaust pipe, also prevent water from entering it. Before entering the water, shift to a low gear and maintain a steady throttle to drive straight through at a constant speed.
I remember an experience years ago driving through a flooded area after heavy rain. The key to navigating water in an automatic transmission car is slow and steady—no rushing. Before proceeding, it's essential to step out or use a stick to measure the water depth, ensuring it doesn't exceed the midpoint of the wheel hub to avoid water entering the intake system. Before starting, shift to a lower gear like L or 2, which keeps the engine RPM higher to prevent stalling. During the process, maintain steady throttle pressure to move forward at a constant speed—avoid braking or sudden acceleration, as this can cause water to surge into the exhaust pipe. After safely passing through, I often lightly press the brakes a few times to clear water from the wheels and check for any abnormalities before continuing. Regular maintenance should focus on sealing the undercarriage, and before and after the rainy season, take the car to a repair shop to inspect electrical wiring to prevent short circuits. Developing these habits ensures calm driving in rainy weather and saves on repair costs.
