How should you drive through flood water?

• A. Slowly, in a high gear, with engine speed low
• B. Slowly, in a low gear, with engine speed high
• C. As quickly as possible to cause the least delay
• D. At normal speed when you have spray reducers fitted

Answer: (B)

When crossing flood water you need enough engine power to avoid stalling while moving at a controlled pace. In a low gear the engine delivers higher torque at low speeds, so you can push through water without lugging or stalling. Keeping engine revs reasonably high helps maintain power and air flow, which reduces the chance of water entering the intake and stalling the engine, while moving slowly minimizes the splash and the amount of water you have to push aside. Driving in a high gear with low revs won’t give you the torque you need, rushing through flood water increases risk, and normal speed with spray reducers isn’t appropriate. After you clear the water, test your brakes gently to dry them.