What happens if water enters the air intake?

Water ingestion (hydrolocking) can cause catastrophic engine damage. Water does not compress like air, so if it enters a cylinder, it can bend connecting rods and crack the engine block. This is often uneconomical to repair.

How fast should I drive through water?

Drive slowly at walking pace (3-5 mph) to avoid creating a bow wave. Keep a steady speed and do not stop. After exiting, test your brakes gently as they will be wet.

Where is the air intake on my car?

Most cars have the air intake behind the front bumper or in the engine bay, typically 400-600mm above ground. Some SUVs have higher intakes. Check your handbook or look for the large flexible hose leading to the air filter box.

How deep can a normal car wade through water?

Most standard cars should not attempt more than 150mm (6 inches) of standing water. The air intake is the critical component; if water enters the engine, it causes hydrostatic lock and catastrophic engine damage. SUVs with raised intakes may manage 300-500mm.

Will driving through floods void my insurance?

If you deliberately drive into water that is obviously too deep, your insurer may refuse the claim on grounds of negligence. If water rises unexpectedly or road conditions are unclear, you are typically covered. Always err on the side of caution and turn around.

CarCalcs

Wading Depth Calculator

Check safe wading depth based on air intake height.

Air Intake Height

Height from ground to air intake

Ground Clearance

How We Calculate This

Safe wading depth is calculated as 75% of the air intake height minus a safety margin. This accounts for bow waves and uneven road surfaces under water.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Actual figures may vary based on driving conditions, vehicle specifications, and other factors.