Info - Engine Failure Due to Water Ingestion/Hydro-Lock

A number of returned engines that have been inspected at engine teardown have failed due to the ingestion of excessive water causing a mechanical failure of the engine. This is most commonly the result of driving the vehicle through water that was too deep at too high of a speed. Another possibility is if the air filter housing has not been properly reassembled after inspecting/servicing the air filter.

Engineering specifically tests for and validates the vehicle's ability to traverse a reasonable amount of water at a reasonable speed without sustaining damage.

The easiest way to determine if this has occurred is to inspect the air filter element and its housing for signs of excessive water. Signs of excessive water in the housing or the air filter element being water soaked should be considered an indication that the vehicle may have ingested an excessive amount of water.

Engine failure due to hydro-locking should not be considered a warrantable defect.

For additional information, refer to P&P Manual under "What is Not Covered". Section 1.2.2 reads: Damage or Corrosion Due to Environment, Chemical Treatments or Aftermarket Products. Damage caused by airborne fallout (chemicals, tree sap, etc.) stones, hail, earthquake, water or flood , windstorm, lightning, the application of chemicals or sealants subsequent to manufacture, etc., are not covered.