Tips for Driving Through Flooded Areas
Assessing the depth of the flooded area before driving through it
Firstly, it is crucial to assess the depth of the flooded area. Many drivers have encountered problems due to underestimating this step and driving straight into deep waters. As a result, their engines suffered hydraulic lock and stalled.
Therefore, if you encounter a heavily flooded area ahead, carefully assess the situation before proceeding.
Each vehicle model has a different water-wading capability, and this depends on the position of the air intake. When the water level is too high and close to the air intake, water can enter and go straight into the engine, causing it to stop working. So, the higher the air intake, the less likely water will get in.
To ensure the safety of your vehicle when driving through flooded areas, it is best to be aware of your vehicle’s water-wading capability. After assessing the situation and determining that it is safe to proceed, you can follow the subsequent steps.
When driving through water, pay attention to your speed and gently accelerate. Do not suddenly accelerate, even when exiting the flooded area. (Illustration)
Turn Off the Air Conditioning
It is advisable to turn off the air conditioning and any unnecessary electrical equipment, such as DVD players or speakers, before entering a flooded road. When the air conditioning is on, the fan in the engine compartment will suck in water, causing it to penetrate deeper into the compartment. Additionally, turning off the air conditioning helps reduce the load on the engine, allowing it to focus all its power on wading through the water. After turning off the air conditioning, roll down the windows to allow air circulation and keep a close eye on the vehicle as it passes through the flooded area.
Shift to a Lower Gear
Another important step when driving through a flooded road is to shift to a lower gear to maintain control of the vehicle. In a lower gear, the pulling force will be higher. For manual transmission vehicles, shift to first or second gear, while for automatic transmission vehicles, shift to D1 or use the shift paddles to shift to first or second gear manually.
Turn On Hazard and Headlights
Before driving into a flooded area, turn on your hazard lights and headlights. If it is a sunny day, you may only need to turn on your fog lights. However, if the sky is overcast, turn on your low beams as well. Doing so will improve visibility and help you gauge the depth of the floodwater.
Maintain a Steady Speed and Avoid Sudden Acceleration or Deceleration
To prevent your vehicle from stalling when driving through a flooded road, maintain a steady speed and avoid driving too slowly or too fast. Do not suddenly accelerate or decelerate when in a flooded area.
Sudden acceleration can create inertia, causing the water to surge and enter the engine compartment through the grille, leading to a stalled engine. On the other hand, sudden deceleration can cause unstable exhaust airflow, allowing water to enter the exhaust pipe and also resulting in a stalled engine.
Moreover, when driving through a flooded area, do not stop in the middle of the road. In case of an unavoidable situation, such as a traffic jam, do not release the accelerator but instead apply the brakes. Simultaneously pressing the brake and accelerator pedals will maintain the engine’s revolutions, preventing it from stalling unexpectedly.
Maintain a Safe Distance from the Vehicle in Front
When driving on a flooded road, it is crucial to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front, as you may need room to maneuver in case of unexpected situations. Remember that abruptly braking, emergency braking, or stopping in a flooded area can cause the engine to stall.
Gradually Increase Speed When Exiting the Flooded Area
Even when you are close to exiting the flooded area, avoid suddenly accelerating. Instead, gradually increase your speed to prevent skidding and engine stalling.
Drive in the Middle of the Road
In Vietnam, the center of most roads is usually built higher than the sides. Consequently, the center of the road tends to have shallower water levels during floods. When driving through a heavily flooded area, try to stay in the middle of the road while still staying within your lane to ensure safety.
Additionally, when driving in a flooded area, maintain a safe distance from larger vehicles, such as buses, trucks, and containers. Staying too close to these vehicles can cause water to splash onto your vehicle, potentially damaging its electrical systems.
Do Not Turn Off the Engine Immediately After Passing Through the Flooded Area
Maintain a steady speed and keep the engine running after passing through the flooded area. Continue driving for 10-15 minutes to allow any water that may have entered the engine compartment to evaporate.
Inspect and Service Your Vehicle as Soon as Possible After Wading Through Water
Driving through flooded areas is not recommended, but if you must, ensure that you get your vehicle inspected and serviced as soon as possible afterward. The dirty water can damage your vehicle’s paint and undercarriage, so it is advisable to wash your car promptly to minimize external damage.
Additionally, have the mechanical systems, suspension, and electrical systems checked and serviced to ensure that no water has entered these critical areas and caused any operational issues.
According to VTC News
