Will the Transmission Get Waterlogged When a Car Drives Through Water?
2 Answers
Yes, a car's transmission can get waterlogged when driving through water. There are two critical water levels that indicate high risk of transmission flooding: 1. Wheel level: If water submerges over two-thirds of the wheel height, there's an 80-90% probability of transmission water ingress. 2. Dashboard level: If water reaches the dashboard height, the transmission is 100% flooded. Additionally, splashing water from road puddles during driving may also cause transmission flooding. Water primarily enters through the transmission vent holes, as the system isn't fully sealed, allowing direct water penetration through these vents.
As an owner who has driven through many muddy sections, let me tell you, it's entirely possible for water to enter the transmission. There's a vent hole on top, like a little nostril for the car. If the water level exceeds the center height of the wheels when wading, water pressure can force its way in through this hole. Especially if you speed through standing water, the waves can directly hit the undercarriage. Last month, my neighbor’s SUV fell victim to this—water just over half the tire height turned the transmission fluid milky white, costing nearly ten thousand yuan in repairs. The key factors are water depth and speed. When the water level rises above the bottom edge of the door, it's best to turn around rather than force your way through.
