What to Do When the Engine Stalls Due to Water Ingress While Driving?
2 Answers
The methods to handle engine stalling caused by water ingress while driving are: 1. Do not attempt to restart the engine; push the vehicle to a location that does not obstruct traffic; 2. Close all doors and windows and wait for rescue. The impacts of a car driving through water include: 1. The engine may experience insufficient power and shaking issues; 2. Moisture or water ingress in the high-voltage distribution system causing short circuits; 3. Water entering the exhaust pipe; 4. Residual water can prevent the brake discs and brake pads from fully engaging, leading to loss of braking power; 5. Debris easily adheres to the gaps in the chassis, causing rust; 6. Water vapor forms inside the headlights, affecting light transmission; 7. Wet wiring harnesses and circuit interfaces in the engine compartment leading to short circuits.
Stalling in water is no joke. The first time it happened to me, I almost panicked. The first step is to turn off the engine immediately and stop the car—never try to restart it, or the engine could be completely ruined. I turned on my hazard lights right away and got out, only to find the water level was almost up to the headlights. I quickly called for a tow truck. At the repair shop, the mechanic removed the spark plugs and confirmed water had entered the cylinders. It cost over 3,000 yuan to drain the water and replace the oil and filter. I’d recommend having a technician thoroughly check all wiring connectors afterward, as rainwater corrosion can easily cause future issues. Remember, safety comes first—if the current is strong, don’t hesitate to abandon the car.
