Why does a car lose power after being submerged in water?
2 Answers
Car loses power after being submerged in water due to circuit short circuits. The following are the specific impacts of a car being submerged in water: 1. Rust and corrosion of the vehicle: After water enters the floor, it will cause corrosion to the floor and metal components, especially easily corroding metal parts, leading to rust and vehicle malfunctions, increasing risks for passengers. 2. Vehicle circuit short circuits: There are many circuits under the vehicle floor. If water enters the vehicle, these circuits may short-circuit, affecting the normal operation of the vehicle, and even burning out the onboard computer due to short circuits. 3. Vehicle odor: If the vehicle floor is not treated promptly after water ingress, the wet floor can easily become moldy and deteriorate, emitting unpleasant odors, causing an odor inside the car.
Why does a car lose power after being submerged in water? I often encounter this issue, and simply put, water can cause short circuits in a car's electrical system. The wiring, fuses, and various electronic components in a car, such as the battery and ECU (Engine Control Unit), are not waterproof. Once water enters, it acts like a conductor, allowing current to flow uncontrollably, which can instantly blow a fuse or directly damage components. For example, if the battery is submerged, a short circuit forms between the positive and negative terminals, quickly draining the power; electronic modules corrode after water exposure, causing the entire system to lose power. I've also seen cases where the engine control unit crashes after submersion, leaving the car unable to start. Accidentally starting a water-submerged car can lead to even greater damage, so it's recommended to tow it to a professional shop immediately for inspection and cleaning to prevent rust and further issues. When encountering flooded areas, it's best to avoid them to protect the car's electrical system.
