What to Do If Water Enters the Engine?
4 Answers
The method to handle water entering the engine is to immediately contact a repair shop for inspection and replace parts as needed based on the actual situation. Do not restart the car after it stalls. During heavy rainfall, many roads may have deep water accumulation, so be very cautious about the depth of water on the road while driving. If the water depth exceeds 20 centimeters, avoid driving through it. After driving through water, multiple areas may be flooded, which could affect the performance of certain car components, and in severe cases, the car may not start normally. Check if the braking system has been flooded. Due to the strong adsorption force of the braking system, rainwater can easily enter the brake fluid, affecting braking performance. In severe cases, it may lead to brake failure. It is recommended to have a professional inspection at a repair shop after the rain.
I've encountered engine water ingress several times, with the most memorable being when I drove through deep water during a heavy rainstorm, allowing water to enter the engine bay. I immediately turned off the engine and got out of the car—never attempt to restart the engine, as this could cause internal bending or deformation, leading to total failure. After calling a tow truck to take the car to the repair shop, the mechanic removed the spark plugs and intake manifold to drain the water, and also replaced the engine oil and air filter. The entire process took over a day and cost around two to three thousand yuan. If the water ingress is severe, it might even require major repairs to the cylinders or pistons. The key takeaway is to stop the car decisively without hesitation. Afterwards, regularly check your vehicle's water-wading capability and avoid driving in areas with unknown water depths. Now, I always keep a tow truck number handy in my car and check weather forecasts and road condition reports before traveling in the rain—prevention is far more cost-effective than repairs.
In our industry, dealing with water ingress in engines is a common task. I advise car owners to immediately turn off the engine and refrain from operating it, then contact a professional repair shop for towing. Upon arrival at the shop, technicians will first use tools to measure the water level, then remove the spark plugs and fuel injectors to drain the accumulated water, and inspect the cylinders for any damage. At the same time, they will replace the contaminated engine oil and filters to prevent rust or cylinder explosion. The entire process usually takes half a day to a day, with repair costs ranging from one thousand to five thousand depending on the situation. Additionally, car owners should familiarize themselves with their insurance policies, as water-related incidents may be partially covered. It's best to develop the habit of avoiding risky maneuvers like driving through puddles, and regular maintenance can reduce the risk. If early symptoms of water ingress, such as shaking or unusual noises, are suspected, the vehicle should be sent for inspection immediately.
Last month, my new car got flooded, and I was so panicked at the time. Seeing water marks in the engine compartment, I remembered my friend's warning: don't start the car! I immediately pulled over and called for roadside assistance to tow the vehicle. After it was delivered to the 4S shop, the mechanics spent several hours cleaning the internal components, draining the dirty water, and replacing the engine oil. Fortunately, there was no serious damage, and the repair only cost a few hundred yuan. But this experience taught me a lesson—I now avoid driving through waterlogged areas and always carry an emergency contact card when going out. I recommend everyone to purchase flood insurance as a precaution. Now, checking the car's condition after every rain has become a habit, and I address any abnormalities promptly.
