Car Won’t Start After Driving Through Water: Causes and Solutions

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where your car won’t start after driving through water? It can be a frustrating and concerning problem, especially if you’re stranded in an unfamiliar location. Driving through water can cause a variety of issues for your car, including damage to the engine, electrical system, and other components. In this blog post, we’ll explore the possible causes of why your car won’t start after driving through water, as well as solutions for diagnosing and fixing the problem. It’s important to address this issue promptly to prevent further damage to your car and ensure your safety on the road.

Understanding Water Damage to a Car

Before we explore the causes and solutions of a car not starting after driving through water, it’s important to understand the impact of water damage on a car. Water can cause severe damage to a car’s engine, electrical system, and other critical components. The severity of the damage depends on the depth of the water, the speed of the vehicle, and the duration of exposure to water.

Car Not Starting After Driving Through Water Problem And Solution

Several factors can cause a car not to start after driving through water. Here are some of the common causes:

Battery Damage

Water can damage the battery’s terminals, which can cause a car not to start. The battery may also become discharged due to water damage, making it unable to provide the necessary power to start the engine.

Electrical System Damage

Water can infiltrate the electrical system of a car, causing damage to the wiring, fuses, and relays. This damage can prevent the car from starting or cause other electrical problems.

Engine Hydrolock

Engine hydro lock occurs when water enters the engine’s cylinders, causing a hydraulic lock that prevents the engine from turning over. This can cause severe damage to the engine and other components.

Wet Ignition System

Water can also infiltrate the ignition system, causing damage to the spark plugs, coils, and other critical components. This can prevent the engine from starting or cause other problems with the car’s performance.

Water in the Fuel System

If water enters the fuel system, it can cause the engine to misfire or prevent it from starting altogether. Water can also cause corrosion in the fuel system, leading to further damage.

Solutions to Fix a Car That Won’t Start After Driving Through Water

If your car won’t start after driving through water, here are some solutions to fix the problem:

Check the Battery

Inspect the battery’s terminals for corrosion or damage. If necessary, clean the terminals with a wire brush or a solution of baking soda and water. You should also check the battery’s voltage with a multimeter to ensure it has enough power to start the engine.

Inspect the Electrical System

Check the fuses, relays, and wiring in the electrical system for signs of damage or corrosion. If you find any problems, replace the damaged components.

Fix Engine Hydrolock

If your engine is hydro locked, you should not attempt to start the car. Instead, have it towed to a mechanic for repairs. The mechanic will need to remove the spark plugs and drain the water from the cylinders.

Dry Out the Ignition System

If the ignition system is wet, you can use a hairdryer or a heat gun to dry out the spark plugs and

the ignition coils. Be sure to let the components cool down before attempting to start the engine.

Drain Water From the Fuel System

If there is water in the fuel system, you should drain the fuel tank and replace the fuel filter. You can also use a fuel system cleaner to remove any remaining water and contaminants from the system.

How Much Water Is Too Much To Drive Through?

The amount of water that is too much to drive through depends on several factors, such as the depth of the water, the speed of the current, the type of car, and the condition of the road. As a general rule, any amount of water that reaches the bottom of your car’s doors or higher should be avoided. This is because the water can enter the engine and other critical components, causing damage or stalling the engine. Additionally, even a small amount of water can cause your car to hydroplane or lose traction, increasing the risk of accidents or getting stranded. It’s also important to pay attention to any road closures or warnings, as they are typically in place to indicate unsafe conditions. When in doubt, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and find an alternative route or wait for the water to recede before attempting to cross.

How long does it take for an engine to dry out?

The time it takes for an engine to dry out after being submerged in water depends on a variety of factors, such as the amount of water that entered the engine, the depth and duration of the submersion, and the type of engine. In some cases, the engine may dry out on its own within a few hours or days, especially if the water was only in the external components of the engine. However, if water has entered the internal components of the engine, such as the cylinders, it may take several days or even weeks for the engine to completely dry out. It’s important to thoroughly dry out the engine and replace any damaged components before attempting to start the car to prevent further damage or potential safety hazards.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a car not starting after driving through water can be a frustrating and potentially dangerous problem. However, by understanding the possible causes and taking the appropriate steps to diagnose and address the issue, you can get your car up and running again. Remember to take precautions to prevent water damage to your car in the future, such as avoiding flooded areas, driving slowly through puddles, and having your car inspected regularly by a qualified mechanic. By taking these steps, you can keep your car in good working order and ensure your safety on the road.