x Shape of the bank.
x Objects in the water.
x Maximum fording depth of the vehicle.
Before driving through water
Stop, get out of the vehicle, and assess the situation ⇒ :
x Measure water depth from one side to the other. Check the firmness of the bed and banks; check
for drop-offs and obstacles in the water ⇒ .
x Make sure it is possible to enter and exit the water safely.
x Check the angle of the embankment and the firmness of the ground on each bank.
x Switch to off-road mode.
Driving through standing and slow-moving water
The vehicle can drive through standing water if the ground under the water is firm enough ⇒ .
Never exceed maximum fording depth.
x Drive slowly into a river in the direction of the flow. Never exceed the departure/approach angle
and lateral angle (vehicle slope).
x Always drive at a constant speed to the other side.
This will help prevent engine damage from the water. It also allows an air pocket to form in front of the
engine that can supply it with the necessary air.
Entering the water quickly or driving too fast through the water will create a bow wave. A bow wave
can force its way into the engine air intake duct and seriously damage the engine.
Driving through fast-moving water
Driving through fast-moving water is very dangerous ⇒ .
The vehicle can be swept away by the current. Even vehicles with high ground clearance can get
stuck if the ground is washed out from under the tires. Fast-moving water will build up against the side
of your vehicle. This will make the water deeper. Always think about this before entering the water.
Water volume, speed, and depth can be very unpredictable and dangerous.
If you are uncertain how fast the water is flowing, look for a shallower place where you can cross in
safety. If you cannot find a safe place to cross, turn back.
Headlight washer system instructions
Do not use the headlight washer system when driving through water. Things in the water can enter
into the openings when the washer nozzles are extended. This can prevent the washer nozzles from
retracting to their normal position. If this should happen, CARefully remove the objects.
After driving through water
x After crossing through deep water, stop the engine and check the oil dipstick. If there are beads of
water on the oil dipstick or the oil level has increased, do not start the engine. Change the engine oil
immediately. Depending on the amount of water in the oil, running or starting the engine can result in
engine failure or serious engine damage.
x Always dry the brakes by braking a couple of times.
