Will the engine be damaged if restarted after stalling in water?
2 Answers
Not necessarily. If the engine has not taken in water, it won't be damaged; if it has, damage will occur. Once a vehicle stalls in water, never attempt to restart it. Water enters through the intake pipe to the resonator box, then to the air filter, and finally into the engine. Here are some extended tips: 1. When driving through water, use a low gear and proceed slowly: Areas with waves and whirlpools likely have large rocks or other obstacles, while calm-looking areas are usually deeper—both should be avoided. Open areas with uniform small waves typically indicate shallow water with gravel, making them ideal for crossing. Maintain distance from other vehicles during water crossings; in multi-vehicle situations, wait until the preceding vehicle has completely exited before entering, preventing potential stranding. 2. Notify insurance for claims: This applies to vehicles parked in underground garages or low-lying areas. Even after water recedes, avoid starting the engine and promptly contact your insurer to prevent secondary engine damage. Standard auto insurance covers all damages except those caused by starting an already flooded engine.
I've been driving for years. A few years ago during the rainy season, my car stalled while crossing a waterlogged road, and I almost instinctively tried to restart it. Fortunately, I remembered the warning from my mechanic. If you restart the engine after it has ingested water, the water gets trapped in the cylinders. When the piston compresses, the pressure spikes dramatically, which can easily bend the connecting rods or even cause catastrophic engine failure, with repair costs running into thousands or tens of thousands. You should never attempt to restart a stalled vehicle in water. The correct response is to promptly call for a tow truck and have it inspected at a proper repair shop. It's best to avoid driving through water deeper than half the wheel height. Regular maintenance of the air filter can also reduce risks. Always check weather and road conditions before traveling during the rainy season.
