Will the engine have problems if the car passes through deep water without stalling?
3 Answers
If a car enters a deep water area without stalling, theoretically, there should be no impact on the engine. However, there are too many unpredictable factors, such as water waves from passing vehicles that could splash into the air intake, or unknown underwater conditions like potholes, which could affect the vehicle's ability to pass through. Here are some precautions to take when driving through deep water: When driving through deep water, shift into a low gear, maintain steady throttle, and pass through slowly. If the engine stalls during the process, exit the vehicle and do not attempt to restart it, as this could damage the engine or even cause it to fail completely. Before entering the water, ensure you maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. For unfamiliar sections of the road, follow the path taken by the preceding vehicle, maintaining a steady fuel supply and moving forward at a slow, consistent speed. Drive smoothly into the water to avoid revving the engine excessively, which could cause water to splash into the engine and stall it. Keep the throttle steady and pass through the water in one go, avoiding gear changes, stops, or turns while in the water. If you notice water flow or wheel slippage while driving, stop immediately and do not force your way through. If the engine is still running, push the car out manually to prevent getting stuck deeper.
I've been running an auto repair shop for over ten years and often deal with flood-damaged vehicles. If a car drives through deep water without stalling, it might seem like it dodged a bullet temporarily, but hidden risks remain. The engine's air intake is positioned high, so it's usually fine, but water can accumulate in the exhaust pipe, leading to muffler corrosion. Water entering the chassis bearings can emulsify the grease, causing strange noises within a month or so. Last time, an SUV that didn't stall came in for inspection, and upon disassembly, we found muddy water had entered the transmission vent—nearly ruining the gears. My advice: after driving through water, lift the chassis to clean it thoroughly and replace both the transmission and differential fluids. Don't skimp on these costs only to end up with major repairs later.
I've been into off-road modifications for seven or eight years, often leading convoys through water crossings. The engine not stalling only means the intake system is fine, but submerged exhaust pipes create backpressure that damages the catalytic converter. The bigger issue is the braking system - water entering wheel hub bearings can rust and seize brake discs. I've personally witnessed brake failure accidents after water crossings in rainy conditions. When differential breathers get submerged, the gear oil deteriorates, accelerating gear wear over time. After water crossings, I recommend promptly visiting a professional shop for complete fluid replacement, with special attention to clutch hydraulic line inspection, as tiny sand particles in water may block oil passages.
