Puddle Dangers Explained
Puddles hide more danger than they reveal. The depth is not always obvious, and for most vehicles the air intake points forward near the radiator, sometimes quite low. When a vehicle drives through a puddle, water can be sucked into the air intake, causing a water hammer in the engine. Water is incompressible, so when it enters cylinders it can damage pistons and connecting rods. This risk is real for engines that take in water under pressure or from low scoops.
Water in deep puddles can reach transmission components as well, including gearboxes and transfer cases. Some SUVs feature air vents with high pipelines for protection, but many crossovers lack this safeguard, making them more susceptible to water intrusion and mechanical trouble from splashing. If the water is very deep, a vehicle may ride up and float briefly, creating a collision risk with other cars or road objects.
Additionally, there can be other hazards in and around puddles. Well depths or open sewer access points may lie beneath the surface, and patches of asphalt or debris nearby can be displaced by the splash, forming a deep trench. Hidden underwater are sharp objects that can pierce a wheel or damage the oil sump. Flooding areas can also knock off license plates kept in plastic frames when storm conditions push debris around.
Deep puddles might conceal holes or sharp edges that seem harmless at first glance. This is why caution is essential before stepping into a seemingly ordinary pool of water.
Assessing the Depth
If a vehicle ahead is approaching a puddle, reduce speed and wait for it to pass before following the same line. This helps gauge the obstacle more accurately. When large trucks push through flood defenses and water covers at least half a wheel, it is prudent for passenger cars and crossovers to detour rather than attempt to chase the line behind the truck. If visibility is poor or the puddle’s depth is uncertain, it is wise to seek an alternative route.
For scenarios with no traffic nearby, this author suggests testing the depth with a stick, if feasible, after stepping through the area with appropriate footwear and ensuring safety. This advice assumes the presence of sturdy rubber boots and a safe, dry location to perform the check.
In the case of crossover vehicles, the risk rises when the shaft near the drain grate is exposed by the rising water. This frontizing feature can trap or lift parts if not navigated carefully.
How to Approach a Puddle
While crossing a puddle, aim to keep the wheels on dry ground on at least one side to lower the chance of driving into a hollow or weakened section. Maintaining a low speed reduces the likelihood of losing control and makes it easier to extract the vehicle afterward.
When possible, stay in first gear on manual transmissions to minimize water intake. For automatic transmissions, CVTs, or robotic gears, intervention may be required to maintain a steady low gear during the crossing. A careful crawl helps generate enough engine speed to resist water ingress into the exhaust system.
Splashing through water at high speed can trigger aquaplaning, causing loss of steering and control. In heavy rain, it is safer to limit speed to around 70 km/h rather than pushing onward. After passing through a puddle, decelerate briefly to allow brakes to shed moisture and regain braking efficiency.
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