Why Can't a Car Engine Be Restarted After Water Intake?

[Katherine]

Restarting an engine after water intake poses a risk of severe engine damage. When water enters the engine, its incompressibility prevents the piston from reaching its original top dead center position, significantly shortening the piston stroke and lowering the top dead center. Attempting to start the engine under these conditions can bend the connecting rods and, in severe cases, damage the cylinder block, resulting in irreparable harm. Insurance companies will not cover damages caused by restarting an engine after water intake. This action violates fundamental insurance claim principles, making claims inadmissible even if the policy includes water damage coverage. If a vehicle stalls after traversing water, do not attempt to restart it, as determining water intake is impossible. Instead, immediately push the vehicle out of the water and call for roadside assistance or contact a nearby repair shop for towing and inspection. When driving through flooded areas, always assess water depth first. Avoid proceeding if water exceeds the axle height. On unfamiliar routes, follow tracks left by preceding vehicles. Maintain a steady speed using low gear, avoid stopping in water, and keep a safe distance from other vehicles.