What is the wading depth of the Maxus V80?
4 Answers
The maximum wading depth of the Maxus V80 is 300mm. The wading depth of the Maxus V80 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, off-road vehicles and SUVs 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 Maxus V80 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 must 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 wading, always turn off the auto start-stop function to prevent the vehicle from automatically restarting after stalling in water, which could cause severe engine damage due to water intake. Judge the underwater road conditions based on the passage of the vehicle ahead and choose the entry point carefully. Observe the path taken by other vehicles and follow it at a low speed, avoiding sudden acceleration or deceleration. On roads prone to water accumulation, observe warning water level markers, trees, or other vehicles' wheels and doors as reference points to estimate the water depth before deciding whether to proceed. Be aware of 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. Instead, choose an alternative route.
I've driven the Maxus V80 on many rural roads, and I'd recommend not exceeding a wading depth of 40 cm for safety. The vehicle's air intake is designed near the front bumper, so higher water levels can easily be sucked in, damaging the engine. Once, I drove through a 35 cm deep water patch slowly and steadily without issues, but always measure the water depth beforehand—use a stick to probe and avoid risks. After wading, immediately check the air filter and engine oil for any signs of emulsification. From a safety perspective, be extra cautious during heavy rain; if there's too much standing water, detour decisively to avoid costly repairs. Remember to regularly maintain seals, especially on older vehicles, to keep them dry. Overall, as a light commercial vehicle, the V80's wading capability is average—don't expect it to perform like an off-roader. Driving cautiously is better for the vehicle.
When I was young, I enjoyed taking the V80 off-road for some adventure. The wading depth limit is about 40-50 cm, depending on your vehicle condition and load. Once I crossed a river with water up to half the wheel, roughly 35 cm, and managed to get through slowly and steadily. However, this isn’t an SUV—it has a low chassis, and deep water can flood the engine or cause electrical shorts. I’d advise against taking risks like I did; repairs are expensive and dangerous if something goes wrong. Keep windows open when wading for a quick escape, and clear drainage holes afterward to prevent rust. Related tip: Headlights may appear dim in rain, so wipe the lenses dry if splashed. Always check the weather forecast first—safety comes first.
I usually use the Maxus V80 for deliveries, and a wading depth of 30-40 cm is generally considered reliable. Simply put, the position of the V80's exhaust and air intake determines the safety threshold—water above the midpoint of the wheels poses significant risks. Maintain a steady speed when wading, avoid sudden acceleration to prevent waves from surging. Post-wading advice: Check the electrical system afterward to avoid short circuits or oxygen sensor damage. Regularly inspect the underbody seals for preventive maintenance, saving both money and effort. Avoid deep water areas—safety first.
