Why Does the Car Make Abnormal Noises After Wading Through Water?
3 Answers
Here are the reasons why a car may produce abnormal noises after wading through water: 1. Brake pads getting wet: If the car wades through shallow water and water splashes onto the brake pads, it is normal to hear a squealing noise when braking. In this case, simply continue driving normally until the water on the brake pads dries up. 2. Foreign objects on the brake pads: If the car wades through deep water, foreign objects such as plastic bags, paper, or mud in the water may get stuck on the brake pads, causing abnormal noises when braking. In this situation, the brake pads need to be cleaned. 3. Water ingestion in the exhaust pipe: If the car wades through deep water and water enters the engine through the exhaust pipe, it can prevent the fuel and air mixture from burning properly, leading to abnormal noises. In this case, the vehicle should be removed immediately and the engine should be cleaned to avoid engine failure or even severe damage. If the vehicle stalls in the water, do not attempt to restart it; instead, call a tow truck to prevent further damage to the engine. 4. Foreign objects stuck in the chassis: If foreign objects get stuck in the chassis after the car passes through water, it can also cause abnormal noises while driving. In this situation, the chassis should be cleaned.
Last time I drove my dad’s old car through a deep puddle, I heard a rattling noise from the chassis, which was really annoying. After consulting a mechanic friend, I learned that water had gotten into the brake pads and drums, causing the metal parts to rust and create noise when rubbing. It’s also common for water to enter the exhaust pipe, where it evaporates and produces a hissing sound. If the water level is too high, it can reach the air filter or chassis bearings, causing them to rust and squeak when rotating. The advice is to drive slowly for a few minutes after wading through water to let the moisture evaporate, and to regularly inspect the brake system to clean any rust spots, especially during rainy seasons. Don’t underestimate these noises—they can indicate more serious issues, like long-term rust damage to critical components.
As someone who enjoys tinkering with my car, I often deal with strange noises after driving through water. The noises are mostly caused by water entering the chassis or wheel areas. For example, if the brakes rust, I remove the wheels and sand the rust spots with sandpaper, clean them, and reinstall them. Water accumulation in the exhaust pipe can also cause noise, so I check the tailpipe and drain the water with a soft hose. If the air filter gets wet and makes strange noises, I simply take it out to dry or replace it. For rusted chassis bolts and bearings due to water ingress, a spray of rust inhibitor can help. The steps are simple: after driving through water, park safely and listen for the noise source, keep tools like WD-40 and cloth handy—it saves money and time. However, if the noises persist frequently, it’s best to consult a professional to avoid safety risks.
