What to Do If the Air Filter Gets Wet?
2 Answers
Water entering the air conditioning filter can affect the engine and may lead to engine water ingress. Here are the relevant solutions: 1. Replace the Air Conditioning Filter: First, turn off the engine to prevent water from entering and causing engine damage. Open the air filter housing, clean out the water (check if water has entered the cylinders), and have a simple cleaning done at a reputable repair shop. Then, replace the wet air filter. 2. Install the Air Conditioning Filter: When installing, pay attention to the orientation of the filter to avoid installing it backward. After installation, check if the filter is properly installed—the filtering surface should cover the entire air duct, with no gaps around it. Otherwise, it may lead to filtration failure.
I've experienced several instances of air filter water ingress, all due to rainy days or slightly deeper road water. When this happens, the first rule is to immediately pull over and turn off the engine to avoid sucking in more water and causing greater damage. Then, open the hood and check the air filter box. If there are water droplets or it's wet inside, remove the air filter to dry or simply replace it with a new one. However, never restart the car at this point, as water entering the cylinders can cause internal engine components to deform or even break, leading to expensive repairs. I usually call a tow truck to take the car to a professional repair shop, where mechanics will use tools to drain excess water and conduct a thorough inspection. Afterward, I've developed a habit of avoiding deep water areas while driving, maintaining low speed and high engine RPM when wading to reduce the risk of water ingestion. Before the rainy season, I also check in advance to ensure the air filter is well-sealed. Prevention is always better than repair, and safety comes first.
