What to Do When the Engine Fails to Start Due to Water Ingestion?
2 Answers
Remove the spark plugs, disconnect the fuel injector connectors, engage the starter motor, wait for the water in the cylinders to drain completely, replace the engine oil, reinstall the spark plugs and fuel injector connectors, and then start the engine. Below are the reasons why an engine fails to start after water ingestion: Check the spark plugs: Spark plugs are crucial components of the car's ignition system. Their performance directly affects the overall working performance and efficiency of the vehicle. Battery depletion: The characteristic symptom is that the starter motor begins to turn but lacks sufficient speed, eventually producing only a clicking sound without rotation. This can occur due to extremely low temperatures in winter or when certain electrical devices are left on, preventing the vehicle from starting. Fuel flow obstruction: The characteristic symptom is the absence of fuel pressure in the engine's fuel supply line. This often happens on particularly cold mornings due to long-term contamination of the fuel lines. Parking the car in a warmer environment may allow it to start after a while, or the issue can be resolved by cleaning the fuel system.
Last time my old Jetta turned into a submarine during a heavy rainstorm, and the engine quit on the spot. Whatever you do, don't try to restart it! The first thing is to turn on the hazard lights and move to a safe spot, then immediately disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent electrical system failure. When I removed the spark plugs, I found all four cylinders were filled with water—used a syringe with a soft tube to suck out every last drop, and even the dipstick could pour out water. The crucial part is to clearly instruct the tow truck driver to keep it in neutral when towing. My dumb apprentice forgot to mention this, and the transmission got wrecked during towing. Even after fixing a flood-damaged car like this, you gotta keep an eye on it. Two months later, the power windows suddenly stopped working—turned out the wiring harness connectors had moldered.
