Why Shouldn't You Restart the Engine After Stalling in Water?

[Gandalf]

If a vehicle needs to drive through a waterlogged section, there is a risk of water ingress if the water level exceeds half of the tire height. When the vehicle stalls, it is crucial not to restart the engine. Below is the relevant explanation: Reason: When water enters or surges into the engine's air intake, whether statically or dynamically, it can sometimes directly cause the engine to stall. However, the water may not have fully entered the engine cylinders at this point. Hazard: If the engine is restarted, water can directly enter the cylinders through the air intake. When the crankshaft pushes the connecting rod to compress toward the piston, water cannot be compressed. The resulting large counterforce can bend the connecting rod. Depending on the force applied, some bends may be visibly noticeable. Some vehicle models may experience slight deformation initially, but over time, the deformation can worsen. Severe bending of the connecting rod can lead to the risk of puncturing the engine block.