What is the wading depth of the eighth-generation Camry?
2 Answers
The maximum wading depth of the eighth-generation Camry is 140mm. The wading depth of the eighth-generation Camry is determined by the height of the vehicle's chassis, which is the ground clearance listed in the model's parameter configuration table. Generally, the greater the ground clearance, the higher the chassis, and the higher the safety factor when passing through waterlogged roads. Therefore, in terms of safe wading depth, the advantages of off-road vehicles and SUVs are obvious. 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 eighth-generation Camry is below the water level during wading, water will be sucked into the engine's cylinders. Since water cannot be compressed like air, it will cause severe damage to the engine's mechanical components (such as connecting rods, pistons, crankshafts, etc.). Therefore, the wading depth should not exceed the height of the engine's air intake. The height of the engine's air intake, and thus the maximum wading depth, can also be increased by installing a snorkel. If wading is unavoidable, the following safe and correct operations should be performed: Before the vehicle enters the water, always turn off the auto start-stop function to prevent the engine from automatically restarting after stalling in the water, which could cause severe damage due to water ingestion. Judge the underwater road conditions based on the passage of the vehicle ahead and choose a suitable entry point. Observe the path taken by other vehicles and follow their tracks at low speed, avoiding sudden acceleration or deceleration. On roads prone to waterlogging, observe warning water level markers, trees, and reference points such as the wheels and doors of other vehicles to estimate the water depth before deciding whether to proceed. Understand your vehicle's safe wading depth. If the water depth exceeds half of the tire height or the engine's air intake, do not enter the water recklessly; choose an alternative route instead.
When driving my eighth-generation Camry, I always have to be cautious about water accumulation during the rainy season. The official specifications don’t provide a specific wading depth, but based on experience, the safe limit is around 300 mm—roughly up to the center height of the wheels. If the water level rises beyond that, it could submerge the exhaust pipe or air intake, leading to engine stalling or water ingress, which could cost thousands to repair. Before driving through water, it’s best to check under the car for any debris that might cause blockages. If the water covers the curb, never force your way through—turn around and find a safe place to stop. Long-term exposure to water can also cause rust on the chassis, so during maintenance, pay attention to the underbody and battery protection, and applying anti-corrosion treatments can provide extra peace of mind. Remember, the Camry is still a sedan with limited off-road capability, so make it a habit to drive slowly through puddles to protect both the car and your safety.
