
Wading depth is 700mm. The maximum wading depth refers to the maximum depth that can be safely traversed under safe driving conditions, also known as the safe depth. It is also an important indicator for evaluating a vehicle's off-road capability. The greater the maximum wading depth, the stronger the vehicle's wading ability. Wading depth: Under full load, the Prado has a minimum ground clearance of around 190mm. The Prado's maximum wading depth of 700mm is a relatively theoretical figure. It is recommended to wade in water up to around 600mm. Exceeding 700mm may cause water to reach connectors, sensors, and other electronic components, posing a risk to your property. Height of the air intake: The height of the air intake determines the vehicle's wading depth. The primary factor is the height of the engine's air intake, which is typically located slightly above the center of the side of the grille. If the air intake is below the water level during wading, water may be sucked into the engine's cylinders. Unlike air, water cannot be compressed.

Fellow car enthusiasts, the Toyota C-HR's wading depth is generally controlled at around 500 millimeters, which is about half a meter of water. This is mainly because its ground clearance is 150 millimeters, and the air intake position is relatively high to prevent water from entering the engine. Why is this important? Deeper water can flood the engine, causing stalling or damage to the electronic systems, especially during heavy rain and slippery roads—don’t force your way through. I’ve driven on off-road sections several times and always make sure to check the water depth in advance, using a stick or estimating the height of nearby obstacles as a reference to avoid taking risks. Additionally, high water temperature or muddy roads can increase the danger. It’s best not to exceed half the height of the wheels; if necessary, take a detour. Remember to drive at a slow, steady speed when wading—no sudden acceleration or braking—to minimize water impact. For maintenance, check the exhaust pipe and chassis after wading to prevent rust or mud clogging. Safety first—your car can’t handle too much rough treatment. Let’s chat more; next time we encounter similar issues, we’ll discuss in detail.

From a safety perspective, the CH-R can handle water depths of about 500 millimeters, roughly up to the calf height. Exceeding this limit poses risks. Think about it—if the water is too deep, the vehicle's underbody intake system is prone to water ingress, and a flooded engine will stall, leading to costly and troublesome repairs. My driving habit is to first assess the on-site conditions, using mobile apps or local weather updates to predict water levels, especially during rainy seasons on mountain roads where extra caution is needed. If crossing is unavoidable, choose a gentler spot and drive through slowly, avoiding whirlpools or fast currents. Traveling with a companion vehicle is also a good idea—one scouts ahead while the other follows. Additionally, remember to open the windows after water ingress as a precaution. If the car stalls, do not attempt to restart it; call for rescue immediately. Regular maintenance of the wheels and seals can prevent leaks. This is like wading across a river—knowing your limits is key.

Talking about the CH-R's wading capability, I feel the limit is around 500mm. Being used to city driving, you need to be extra careful when encountering rainwater: if the water level exceeds the middle of the tires, don't push through. Deep water can cause the engine to stall and accelerate chassis corrosion. Regularly check tire pressure and intake seals to keep the car in good condition. After driving through water, rinse off any sand and mud promptly to protect mechanical components and extend their lifespan. Simply put, safety first is the way to go.


