Watch out for those water puddles
With the current weather pattern of frequent rain, and in many cases heavy downpours, keeping your vehicle safe from water damage has become a very important consideration for motorists.
The problem is exacerbated by small dams of water forming all over roads due to ineffective stormwater drains not draining effectively and insufficient road maintenance.
“Not only does this present a road safety hazard, but the water can be equally hazardous to your car,” said Dewald Ranft, chairperson of the Motor Industry Workshop Association.
Ranft said possible damage from water can impact several different components in one’s car ranging from your engine control unit (ECU) to gearbox control unit.
Water can enter the electronic components and cause the engine to stall. Excess water can also impact a car’s air cleaner intake, which is usually fitted low on a car.
“This presents a great risk as taking in excess water can damage the car engine. Water sucked into the engine can cause hydro lock. This will destroy the inner working of the vehicle engine at great cost to the driver.”
One also has to watch for the small things if parking a car outside.
“It is key to drain under wipers which can become blocked due to leaves and twigs. If left, this can lead to damage to the engine ECU. Water can enter the ECU or the gearbox control unit. “This will cause the car to stall and require expensive repair. It can be easily avoided with regular maintenance, like cleaning cowl panels and water draining systems,” said Ranft.
To prevent damage motorists should follow the following guidelines:
• Never drive too fast into a pool of water if you are not sure of the depth of the puddle. This can lead to the vehicle being damaged or even being totally flooded with water. Dangerous aquaplaning is also a risk and can cause the driver to lose control.
• Avoid fast-flowing low water bridges. Fast-flowing water over low-water bridges as little as six inches can sweep a vehicle downstream.
• Be alert for hidden potholes covered by water which can cause damage to the vehicle rims, tyres and alignment.
• Always drive with your headlights on when it is raining to make your vehicle more clearly visible. In heavy rain or misty conditions, it may even be necessary to switch hazard lights on to be more visible.
• Never speed in the rain. Drive slowly and maintain additional following distances.
