What is the wading capability of the Model 3?

[DeTessa]

The wading capability of the Model 3 depends on its maximum wading depth, which is 138mm. The wading depth of the Model 3 is determined by the height of the vehicle's chassis, also known as the ground clearance listed in the model's parameter configuration. Generally, the greater the ground clearance, the higher the chassis, and the higher the safety factor when driving through waterlogged roads. Therefore, in terms of safe wading depth, SUVs and off-road vehicles have obvious advantages. However, for most compact and small cars with low chassis, the position of the vehicle's air intake should be used as a benchmark when passing through waterlogged roads. If the air intake of the Model 3 is below the water level during wading, water will be sucked into the engine's cylinders. Since water cannot be compressed like air, it can cause severe damage to the engine's mechanical components (such as connecting rods, pistons, crankshafts, etc.). Therefore, the wading depth must not exceed the height of the engine's air intake. Installing a snorkel can increase the height of the engine's air intake, thereby improving the maximum wading depth. If wading is unavoidable, the following safe and correct operations should be performed: Before driving through water, always turn off the auto start-stop function to prevent the engine from automatically restarting after stalling in water, which could lead to severe engine damage due to water ingress. Assess the underwater road conditions based on the passage of vehicles ahead and choose an appropriate entry point. Observe the path taken by other vehicles and follow their tracks at a low speed, avoiding sudden acceleration or deceleration. On roads prone to water accumulation, use warning water level markers, trees, or other vehicles' wheels and doors as reference points to estimate the water depth before deciding whether to proceed. Know your vehicle's safe wading depth. If the water depth exceeds half the tire height or the engine's air intake level, avoid entering the water and choose an alternative route.