What to Do When the Exhaust Pipe Gets Waterlogged?
4 Answers
When a car's exhaust pipe gets waterlogged, you can take it to a 4S shop for a simple cleaning and drying, which will allow the engine to function normally. If the exhaust pipe is waterlogged and the engine stalls, do not attempt to force a restart. Instead, immediately call for roadside assistance.
I remember last year during the rainy season, my car's exhaust pipe took in water after going through a deep puddle, and the engine stalled. I immediately pulled over to a safe spot and turned off the engine, not daring to restart it, knowing that water could backflow into the engine and damage the cylinders. Later, I called a tow truck to take it to the repair shop, where the technician drained the water and checked that the sensors were fine. The lesson is to avoid driving through flooded areas during the rainy season—if the water level is above the exhaust pipe, don't go through it. It's also a good idea to regularly check if the drainage holes under the car are clogged during routine maintenance, rather than regretting it after something happens. This incident didn't cost much but could prevent serious vehicle damage. Remember to drive safely and never force your way through deep water.
As someone who frequently drives on mountain roads, I understand that water entering the exhaust pipe often results from driving through excessively deep water. Do not start the vehicle immediately, as water entering the cylinders can cause hydro-lock or piston damage. Pull over and turn off the engine as soon as possible, then push the car to higher ground to avoid secondary accidents. Afterward, call for roadside assistance or a tow truck to take the vehicle to a professional repair shop for water drainage and inspection. For prevention, check the chassis seals during the rainy season and avoid deep water. Water depths exceeding 30 centimeters pose significant risks. Installing a snorkel can improve a vehicle's water-fording capability, but it's not a universal solution.
Exhaust Pipe Water Intake Immediate Action: Do not attempt to start the engine after turning it off. Park in a safe location away from water flow. Call for professional towing services. Avoid trying to drain water or restart the engine yourself to prevent water backflow and engine damage. Always be mindful of water depth; avoid driving if it exceeds half of the tire height. If water intake occurs, pushing the car to a repair shop is more cost-effective.
