How to Know if Your Car Engine Has Water

1. Check the Oil Dipstick

One of the first signs that your car engine has water is if the oil dipstick reads high. When water gets into the oil, it causes the oil level to rise. To check the oil dipstick, simply pull it out of its tube and wipe it clean with a rag. Then, reinsert the dipstick into the tube and pull it out again. The oil level should be between the two marks on the dipstick. If the oil level is above the upper mark, it is likely that your car engine has water.

2. Look for Milky Oil

Another sign that your car engine has water is if the oil is milky. When water mixes with oil, it creates an emulsion that looks like milk. To check for milky oil, simply open the oil cap and look at the oil inside. If the oil is milky, it is likely that your car engine has water.

3. Feel for a Rough Idle

If your car engine has water, it may also idle rough. This is because the water will cause the engine to misfire. To check for a rough idle, simply start your car and let it idle for a few minutes. If the engine idles rough, it is likely that your car engine has water.

4. Listen for a Knocking Noise

Another sign that your car engine has water is if you hear a knocking noise. This noise is caused by the water hitting the pistons. To check for a knocking noise, simply listen to your engine while it is running. If you hear a knocking noise, it is likely that your car engine has water.

5. Look for Steam Coming from the Exhaust

If your car engine has water, you may also see steam coming from the exhaust. This steam is caused by the water evaporating. To check for steam coming from the exhaust, simply start your car and let it run for a few minutes. If you see steam coming from the exhaust, it is likely that your car engine has water.

6. Check the Coolant Level

Another way to check if your car engine has water is to check the coolant level. If the coolant level is low, it is possible that your car engine has a leak. To check the coolant level, simply open the coolant reservoir and look at the level inside. The coolant level should be between the two marks on the reservoir. If the coolant level is low, it is likely that your car engine has a leak.

7. Get a Professional Diagnosis

If you are not sure whether or not your car engine has water, it is best to get a professional diagnosis. A mechanic can use a variety of tests to determine if your car engine has water and can recommend the best course of action.