Will the engine definitely be damaged if it is started a second time after water ingress?
3 Answers
Starting the engine a second time after water exposure will definitely cause damage to the engine. The following is expanded content: Damage process: During the second start, water will directly enter the cylinder through the intake port. When the crankshaft pushes the connecting rod to compress towards the piston, the water cannot be compressed. The large reaction force will cause the connecting rod to bend, resulting in uneven force distribution on the connecting rod. The function of the engine is: To convert the heat energy of gasoline or diesel into mechanical energy by burning the fuel in a sealed cylinder, causing the gas to expand and push the piston to perform work. Engine maintenance methods include: Using qualified engine oil; using qualified coolant and antifreeze; regularly cleaning the radiator scale; regularly cleaning engine carbon deposits; regularly replacing the three automotive filters; maintaining a reasonable engine speed.
Having worked on cars for so many years, I've encountered quite a few cases of engine water ingestion. A second ignition attempt after water ingestion won't necessarily cause immediate failure, but the risk is extremely high – nine times out of ten it leads to serious damage. The principle is that water, unlike air, cannot be compressed. If you force-start the engine, the piston compressing water upward can directly bend connecting rods or shatter pistons, rendering the entire cylinder useless. I've seen some cars escape damage by sheer luck, either because the water intake was minimal or didn't reach critical areas, but that's just good fortune not worth gambling on. Most times, a second ignition attempt turns minor issues into major disasters, with repairs costing at least tens of thousands. So if your engine stalls from water ingestion, don't attempt to restart – call a tow truck for professional inspection and complete water drainage before considering restart. Safety first – always check water depth while driving and avoid flooded areas.
As an experienced driver, I believe that attempting to restart the engine after water ingestion will most likely cause severe damage. The reason is obvious: when water enters the cylinders, ignition forces the pistons to compress the incompressible liquid, subjecting the connecting rods to unbearable stress that often leads to bending or fracture – effectively totaling the engine. I nearly made this mistake in my younger days when instinct made me reach for the ignition after stalling in deep water, fortunately stopped by a quick-thinking friend. Don't be fooled by vehicles that seem fine initially; accelerated component wear becomes inevitable, leading to complex and costly repairs later. Most critically, sudden engine failure creates dangerous situations, especially on highways where loss of propulsion could be catastrophic. Always remember to cut power immediately after stalling, avoid touching the ignition key, and call for professional towing. Regularly inspect engine bay seals and avoid low-lying routes during rainy seasons as preventive measures against water intrusion.
