What is the wading depth of the Outlander?
3 Answers
The maximum wading depth of the Outlander is 450mm. The wading depth of the Outlander 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 Outlander 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 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 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 engine from automatically restarting if the vehicle stalls 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 low speed, avoiding sudden acceleration or deceleration. On roads prone to water accumulation, observe warning water level markers, trees, or other reference points like the wheels and doors of other vehicles 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, do not proceed and choose an alternative route.
The Outlander's wading depth is typically marked around 600mm, primarily depending on the height of the air intake. When crossing water, drive at a low and steady speed to avoid sudden acceleration that could cause waves to flood the engine compartment. As an experienced owner, I recommend checking the chassis seals and intake system before the rainy season to prevent water leakage that could damage the engine. Never take risks when the water depth exceeds half of the tire height, as it could lead to costly repairs and safety hazards. It's best to carry tools to regularly clean mud and sand from the chassis, maintaining good vehicle condition to handle occasional waterlogged roads. After wading, promptly rinse the brake components to prevent rust and maintain braking effectiveness.
I've checked the official data for the Mitsubishi Outlander, and its wading depth is stated as 600mm. When driving across rivers or in heavy rain, maintain a steady speed and avoid sudden acceleration to prevent water from entering the exhaust pipe. From personal experience, if the current is too strong, it's better to find an alternative route. If the engine stalls, don't attempt to restart it immediately; wait and inspect the engine compartment first. Wading capability can be affected by tire wear—new tires with better grip are more reliable. Modifying the intake pipe can slightly improve performance, but it must be done by professionals. Safety is paramount; if the water depth exceeds ankle level, it's best not to proceed.
