Driving through standing water

It may be necessary to drive the vehicle through standing water e.g. deep puddles or flooding on the road. This must be done with great caution.

The vehicle can be driven through water up to a depth of 45 cm (17 in) at no more than walking speed. Be particularly careful when driving through flowing water.

When driving through standing water, drive slowly and do not stop the vehicle. When you have passed the water, press lightly on the brake pedal and check that the brakes are functioning properly. Water, mud, slush, etc. can make the brake linings slippery, resulting in delayed braking effect.

  • If the vehicle is equipped with contacts for an electric heater or trailer coupling, clean these after driving in water or mud.
  • Do not allow the vehicle to stand in water up to the sills any longer than absolutely necessary. This could result in electrical malfunctions.

 Important

  • Engine damage could occur if water enters the air cleaner.
  • If water enters the transmission, the lubricating ability of the oils is reduced and the service life of these systems is shortened.
  • Damage to any component, engine, transmission, turbocharger, differential or its internal components caused by flooding, vapor lock or insufficient oil is not covered under warranty.
  • If the engine stalls while the vehicle is in water, do not attempt to restart it. Have the vehicle towed out of the water to a workshop. An authorized Volvo workshop is recommended. Risk of engine failure.

 Important

Because it can be difficult to determine the water depth, Volvo recommends not driving through standing or running water. The driver is always responsible for operating the vehicle in a safe manner and adhering to all applicable laws and regulations.

To help prevent damage to the vehicle when driving through water:

  • Do not drive in water higher than the floor of the vehicle. If possible, check the depth of the water at its deepest point before driving through it. Be particularly careful when driving through flowing water.
  • Do not drive faster than walking speed.
  • Do not stop the vehicle in the water. Drive carefully forward or back the vehicle out of the water.
  • Remember that waves created by passing vehicles could cause the water level to rise above the vehicle's floor level.
  • Avoid driving through salt water to help avoid the risk of corrosion.

 Important

Because it can be difficult to determine the water depth, Volvo recommends not driving through standing or running water. The driver is always responsible for operating the vehicle in a safe manner and adhering to all applicable laws and regulations.

When you have passed the water, press lightly on the brake pedal and check that the brakes are functioning properly. Water, mud, slush, etc. can make the brake linings slippery, resulting in delayed braking effect.

If the vehicle is equipped with a trailer coupling contact, clean the contact after driving in water or mud.