Driving Through Flood Water
Driving through flood water is risky because its depth, current and what lies beneath are hard to judge.
What is Driving Through Flood Water?
Even shallow moving water can push a car sideways or float it. Water drawn into the engine air intake can cause hydrolock and severe engine damage. Electric cars also have wading limits set by the manufacturer. Cars that have been fully submerged are often written off because of hidden electrical and corrosion damage.
How it works
Water can enter the air intake, exhaust and electrical systems, and its buoyancy reduces the tyres’ grip on the road.
Why it matters for your car
Do not drive into water of unknown depth; turn back and find another route. If you must cross, go slowly, then test the brakes gently after leaving the water.
Other terms
- Air Filter
- Body Control Module (BCM)
- Bolt Pattern (PCD)
- Brake Bleeding
- Camshaft Phaser (VVT Actuator)
- Car Segments (A To F)
- Car Shampoo
- Clutch
- Connector Corrosion
- Driveline Clunk
- Front Grille
- HVO Diesel (Renewable Diesel)
- New Car Warranty
- OBD-II
- Oil Drain Plug
- Part Number
- Periodic Technical Inspection (MOT, TÜV)
- Rich Mixture
- Usable Battery Capacity (Net Capacity)
- Vehicle-to-grid (V2G, Bidirectional Charging)