## Car Engine Got Wet: What to Do and What Not to Do
### What to Do
**1. Stay Calm**
The first and most important thing to do is to stay calm. Panicking will only make the situation worse.
**2. Pull Over**
If you can, pull over to a safe location. Turn off the engine and put the car in park.
**3. Check the Water Level**
Open the hood and check the coolant level. If the level is low, add more coolant.
**4. Check for Leaks**
Look for any leaks in the hoses or radiator. If you find a leak, try to patch it with a piece of tape or a clamp.
**5. Let the Engine Cool Down**
Let the engine cool down for at least 30 minutes before you attempt to start it again.
**6. Start the Engine**
Once the engine has cooled down, try to start it. If it starts, let it run for a few minutes to warm up.
**7. Drive to a Mechanic**
Even if the engine starts, it’s important to have it checked by a mechanic as soon as possible. They can determine the extent of the damage and make sure that your car is safe to drive.
### What Not to Do
**1. Don’t Drive the Car if the Engine Is Overheating**
If the engine is overheating, don’t drive the car. This can cause serious damage to the engine.
**2. Don’t Add Cold Water to a Hot Engine**
Adding cold water to a hot engine can cause the engine to crack.
**3. Don’t Open the Radiator Cap When the Engine Is Hot**
Opening the radiator cap when the engine is hot can cause hot coolant to spray out and burn you.
**4. Don’t Ignore the Problem**
If your car engine gets wet, don’t ignore the problem. It’s important to have it checked by a mechanic as soon as possible.
## Causes of a Wet Car Engine
There are several things that can cause a car engine to get wet, including:
* **A coolant leak**
* **A leak in the radiator**
* **A leak in the hoses**
* **A blown head gasket**
* **A cracked engine block**
## Symptoms of a Wet Car Engine
Some of the symptoms of a wet car engine include:
* **White smoke coming from the exhaust**
* **Coolant leaking from the engine**
* **A drop in coolant level**
* **Overheating engine**
## Consequences of Ignoring a Wet Car Engine
Ignoring a wet car engine can lead to several serious problems, including:
* **Engine damage**
* **Transmission damage**
* **Electrical damage**
* **Fire**
## How to Prevent a Wet Car Engine
There are several things you can do to prevent a wet car engine, including:
* **Keep your car’s coolant level topped off**
* **Check your car’s hoses and radiator for leaks regularly**
* **Have your car’s head gasket inspected regularly**
* **Avoid driving through flooded areas**
## Conclusion
A wet car engine can be a serious problem, but it’s one that can be avoided with proper maintenance. By following the tips in this article, you can keep your car’s engine running dry and healthy.
