Will restarting the engine after wading definitely damage it?
2 Answers
Restarting the engine after wading will definitely damage it. During a second start, water can directly enter the cylinders through the intake ports. When the crankshaft pushes the connecting rods to compress the pistons, water cannot be compressed, and the strong counterforce will cause the connecting rods to bend, resulting in uneven stress distribution. The function of an engine is to convert the thermal energy of gasoline or diesel into mechanical energy by burning the fuel in sealed cylinders, causing gas expansion that drives the pistons to perform work. Engine maintenance methods include: 1. Using qualified engine oil; 2. Using qualified coolant and antifreeze; 3. Regularly cleaning scale from the radiator; 4. Regularly removing carbon deposits from the engine; 5. Regularly replacing the three filters in the car; 6. Maintaining reasonable engine speeds.
I've seen many cases where cars stalled in flooded areas and had their engines completely destroyed by a second attempt to start. Once water enters the cylinders, the pistons cannot compress water during engine operation, and the tremendous pressure can bend or even break the connecting rods. In such cases, the entire engine requires major repairs, often costing tens of thousands. Of course, if the car has just stalled and the water level only reaches the tires, water may not have been sucked into the intake yet, and restarting might work by sheer luck—but I never recommend taking that risk. The safest approach is to shift into neutral immediately after stalling and push the car to dry ground, or simply call for a tow truck. Remember, any attempt to restart is gambling with the engine's lifespan—it's not worth it.
