Will the engine get water inside when it rains?
3 Answers
Rain will not cause water to enter the engine. The engine's air intake goes through the air filter, which is located in the engine compartment and is covered by the hood, so water cannot get in. Unless the hood is left open or the air filter is removed during rain. If water enters the engine, it can easily cause the engine to stall. If the engine does not stop running, water may enter the spark plugs, leading to engine stalling. Restarting the engine in such a condition can cause the engine valves to be damaged, and in severe cases, the engine may be completely ruined. Additional information: 1. Water ingress insurance: Also known as engine special loss insurance, it is a derivative of vehicle damage insurance. This insurance is an additional coverage that car owners can purchase specifically for the engine. It mainly provides compensation for engine damage caused by driving through waterlogged roads or submersion. 2. Applicable scenarios: When the insured vehicle is submerged up to the exhaust pipe or intake pipe due to heavy rain or flooding, and the driver continues to start the vehicle or uses inertia to start it; or when the vehicle is started without necessary repairs after being exposed to heavy rain or flooding.
As a veteran taxi driver with years of experience, I can confidently say that engines generally don't take in water during normal rainy conditions. The engine compartment is designed with waterproof measures to prevent rainwater from entering, and the high engine temperature helps evaporate water droplets. However, if you drive too fast through deep water puddles during heavy rain, water can be sucked into the engine through the air intake, causing complete engine failure—this is known as hydraulic lock (or water hammer effect), and repairs can cost thousands or even tens of thousands. I once witnessed a friend's car stall after plowing into a waterlogged area during a downpour, resulting in a broken crankshaft and connecting rod. My advice: avoid waterlogged areas in rainy weather, detour if water depth exceeds half the tire height, and if you must cross, shift to a low gear and maintain a steady speed. Regularly check that the air filter remains dry during maintenance, and avoid modifying the intake system to prevent compromising its seal. Also, if your car struggles to start after driving through water, pull over immediately and have it inspected by a professional repair shop. Safety always comes first!
During car repairs, I often encounter waterlogged engines. Rainwater usually doesn't cause trouble as the engine hood and underbody panels can block water. Even heavy rain won't harm the engine unless the car gets submerged. The real risk comes from driving through floodwater – like when roads turn into rivers after storms. When water levels rise above the wheel hub centerline, water can easily enter cylinders through the intake manifold, instantly damaging internal components. I remember reviving a water-damaged car last rainy season caused by the owner recklessly plowing through standing water. For prevention: drive slowly to minimize water splash; check the engine compartment for residual water after rain, especially around the air filter box. Modification enthusiasts note: avoid improper exhaust modifications or suspension lifts that compromise sealing. Daily driving in rain is perfectly safe, but remember – never risk driving through deep water.
