What Will Happen To My Porsche If I Drive It Through High Waters?
By all means, avoid driving through high waters. The perils that come along with this kind of driving are usually costly. There are times though, when for safety reasons you are left with no choice but to drive though high waters. It could be in a bid to escape floods or any even to save a life. Here’s what to expect from your Porsche after such an ordeal.
Rust
Moisture and air are all you need to have rust. As such, expect rust a day or two after driving through high waters. This shouldn’t worry you so much solely because the solution is simple. Dry by wiping any detachable component of your vehicle. Be keen on the rim, bracket bolts and even your Porsche tools.
Engine Issues
Engine complications are not uncommon after flooding issues. That is in fact why taking your Porsche for inspection after a flooding incident is highly recommended. Water may have found its way into the engine and in the process, it may have contaminated engine oil. You’ll notice this once you see traces of water on the dipstick. The engine oil may also become milky. Before you know it, the engine may suffer hydro lock. Water may also get sucked into the air filter. In this case you should be able to notice that that the filter element is wet. The best you can do at this point is to avoid as much as you can to attempt quick fix solutions. Do not in fact, start the car. Have it towed to a mechanic for a thorough engine inspection.
Electronic Components Damage
Your Porsche is fitted with electronic components and connectors that are water resistant. This is meant to keep water out in order to prevent short circuit incidents. Sometimes though and in very rare cases, water may find its way through your Porsche’s electronic system. Short circuits at this point may be imminent. The headlights may not work, the stereo system may also refuse to turn on. To troubleshoot the problem, start by inspecting all the fuses. Check all relays too. Be sure to have a Porsche expert to help you with the inspection and replacement needs.
Brake Issues
Your brakes get soaked each time you drive through high waters. They then lose their grip and slip more. This is of course, a safety issue. It is easy to understand why the slip happens. With moisture, enough friction created is not created. Bringing your car to a complete stop or even slowing down may be somewhat difficult. Unfortunately when it comes to braking issues, there isn’t much you can do other than to consider replacement for the affected parts. In other words, you may have to replace the rotors as well as the brake pads.
Point To Note
Avoid letting your car sit for weeks idle after driving through high waters. Wash it thoroughly, allow it to dry in the sun then take it for inspection. Remember your number one objective is your own safety. With that mind, do not leave anything to chance.