What problems may occur after a vehicle wades through water?
3 Answers
Problems that may occur after a vehicle wades through water include: 1. Residual water can prevent the brake discs and brake pads from fully contacting, causing loss of braking power; 2. Rainwater on roads tends to be dirty with debris like fallen leaves, which can easily adhere to chassis gaps and cause rust; 3. If headlight covers aren't well sealed, water can enter during wading, creating condensation inside that affects light projection; 4. The engine compartment contains numerous wiring harnesses and circuits that may get wet during wading. If interfaces are found wet, immediate drying is necessary to prevent short circuits.
Last time my car got flooded, it was a total nightmare. The most critical damage was water entering the engine - once water gets into the cylinders through the intake pipe, forcing a start could cause cylinder scoring, requiring an overhaul costing over 10,000 yuan. The wiring harness connectors in the chassis are prone to short circuits after water immersion, potentially causing sudden failure of lights or the central control system, which is especially dangerous during rainy conditions. The interior becomes problematic too - carpets soaked with dirty water breed mold, and that musty smell can linger for three months. When we finally disassembled it for cleaning, we found the seat springs had rusted through. Transmission fluid emulsified by water requires complete replacement, with material costs alone exceeding 2,000 yuan. The most concerning are hidden components like chassis bearings - if not immediately serviced after water exposure, they'll start making abnormal noises within six months. My advice: if floodwater exceeds the wheel hubs, don't hesitate to call a tow truck immediately. At the repair shop, insist on seat removal to inspect all wiring harnesses.
I deeply understand the significant hazards of flood-damaged cars. If the water level submerges the exhaust pipe, the engine is prone to stalling, and attempting to restart it at this point will likely result in severe engine damage. The electronic systems are particularly vulnerable; for instance, when the ABS sensor fails due to water exposure, the braking distance can increase by up to five meters, making emergency stops in rainy weather especially terrifying. After a car's chassis has been submerged, it's crucial to inspect the half-shaft oil seals. A friend of mine overlooked this, and six months later, his transmission started leaking oil, costing him 8,000 yuan in repairs. Interior water accumulation is even more troublesome. If moisture in the air conditioning ducts isn't promptly removed, turning on the cold air will emit a foul, fishy odor. Neglecting mud and water in the door hinges can lead to rust and stiffness—my car's front left door now creaks loudly when opening or closing. My advice is to immediately turn off the engine and disconnect the battery after driving through water. When calling for rescue, remember to request a flatbed tow truck to avoid secondary damage.
