Will the Engine of a Statically Submerged Vehicle Take in Water?
3 Answers
Whether the engine of a statically submerged vehicle will take in water mainly depends on the depth of the water. Generally, if the water depth exceeds half of the tire height, it may cause the engine to take in water. Below is more information about submerged vehicles: 1. Definition: A submerged vehicle refers to a car that has been soaked in water, typically meaning the engine and transmission have been submerged, with the water depth exceeding the wheels and body seats, and the vehicle's bottom components being in prolonged contact with water. Such vehicles pose significant risks, as the electrical circuits are prone to short circuits, fires, etc. 2. Hazards: The hazards of water-damaged vehicles are substantial. If a vehicle is submerged in water, it can easily lead to rusting of body components, shortening the vehicle's lifespan and reducing safety performance. For example, water damage can cause corrosion and rusting of the vehicle's wiring, leading to sudden engine shutdown or spontaneous combustion due to short circuits while driving.
I've been repairing cars for twenty years and have seen plenty of flood-damaged vehicles. Whether a statically submerged car's engine takes in water entirely depends on the water level. If the water only reaches halfway up the tires, the engine compartment is basically dry, and the likelihood of water ingress is minimal. However, once the water level exceeds the position of the intake grille, water will pour into the engine through the intake pipe, turning the engine's interior into a water tank. Last time, a flooded SUV was towed to the shop, and upon disassembling the engine, we found the piston rings were rusted. Even if the water doesn't reach the intake, prolonged submersion can lead to water backing up through the exhaust pipe, especially in models with downward-facing exhaust pipes, making them more vulnerable. So, if you see your beloved car submerged, never recklessly attempt to start it—otherwise, the connecting rods could bend instantly, costing you tens of thousands.
As an adjuster who frequently handles auto insurance claims, I believe the key to static water immersion lies in the specific location. The engine itself has decent sealing, but the air intake is like an open funnel—once the water level exceeds the top edge of the front bumper, the engine is guaranteed to take in water. I've handled cars towed after heavy rains where the water only reached the center of the wheel hubs, yet inspection revealed mud inside the exhaust muffler, indicating water had seeped backward through the exhaust pipe into the cylinders. Even more troublesome are the electronic control systems in modern vehicles—water immersion often causes short circuits in the ECU module, rendering engine repairs useless. I advise owners to call for a tow truck immediately after water immersion, as attempting self-inspection can easily lead to mishandling.
