Flood season is here, rain and cars don’t always go hand in hand, but with our simple and fast guide, you’ll be more prepared to handle these challenging driving conditions.

With additional heavy rain in the forecast, it’s essential for drivers to understand how to navigate flooded roads. While a waterlogged road might appear harmless and the idea of driving through deep water seems adventurous, it is dangerous and costly. Therefore, if you come across a flooded road, your initial step should be to try and avoid it. If avoidance isn’t an option, here’s what you should be aware of.

How deep is the flood?

Never consider driving through flood water unless you know how deep the water is. If it rises above half the height of a tyre – AVOID. If you’re uncertain about how deep it is, it’s best not to be the first to attempt it. Watch other vehicles instead. Should you choose to proceed, make sure to drive at a slow and steady pace.

IF YOU CAN WAIT, WAIT…

5 Hacks For Driving Through Flood Waters

It’s important to remember that just about 30cm of water can shift a car, and 60cm is enough for a car to be carried away. Always be vigilant, as flood waters are unpredictable. 

1. Evaluate the Situation
Before deciding to drive through deep water, carefully assess the conditions. Entering without proper evaluation can lead to unexpected depths, risking loss of vehicle control and potentially causing significant damage.

2. Proceed in First Gear
When you encounter a flooded roadway, shift your vehicle into first gear and move forward slowly, maintaining a speed of 1-2 mph. Driving too quickly can cause aquaplaning, leading to a loss of control. Keeping your engine at high revs reduces the chance of water entering the exhaust, which can harm your vehicle.

3. Caution When Passing Other Vehicles
Ensure a safe distance between you and the vehicle ahead to mitigate the impact of their movement. If a larger vehicle is crossing, allow it to clear the flooded area to avoid being caught in the wake it generates.

4. Aim for the Road’s Highest Point
The centre of the road, known as the crown, is typically higher and designed to drain water toward the sides. Stay vigilant for hidden dips like potholes and trenches where water might be deeper than expected.

5. Maintain Engine Revs and Dry Your Brakes
While in water, keep the engine revving to help prevent water from entering the exhaust. Accelerate slightly to create a small wave, shielding the engine from excessive water. Once out of the water, remember that your brakes might be wet. Drive slowly and apply the brakes lightly for the next few miles to dry them, ensuring they function properly.

 

What are the signs that water may have entered my engine?

– A cranking noise when you try to start the engine
– A strong smell of petrol
– Total failure to start or an engine that starts momentarily before stopping

How to fix a flooded engine – *Petrol vehicles only

The simplest method, though only applicable to petrol cars, involves popping open the bonnet and waiting about ten minutes before attempting to start the car again. In typical environmental temperatures, petrol will evaporate, allowing sufficient space for air after a short while.

When restarting the car, avoid pressing the accelerator pedal to prevent additional fuel from entering the cylinders.

Or to properly open the airline, fully depress the accelerator pedal and maintain that position without pumping it. Pumping introduces more fuel, whereas holding the pedal down completely only adds a small amount. After doing so, wait roughly 30 seconds before starting the ignition, all while keeping the pedal fully pressed down.

If your engine continues to have trouble starting, your vehicle might be experiencing a more serious problem such as clogged injectors or faulty spark/glow plugs. Schedule an appointment at your nearest Milton Keynes Garage where our skilled technicians can quickly diagnose and resolve the issue.