Driving through flooded terrain or bodies of water could damage the vehicle.
It is possible to carefully drive the vehicle through water levels up to the lower edge of the body.
1. Observe the maximum fording depth of the vehicle.
2. When driving through water, always select a section where the ground is solid and where the depth of the water does not exceed
the maximum permitted fording depth of the vehicle.
3. Observe further information on driving through water on roads (→ Driving through water on roads).
Before driving through water
Stop the vehicle, get out and assess the situation →
:
1. Measure the depth of the water to the other side. Ensure that the ground is firm enough and also watch out for underwater
hollows and obstacles →
.
2. Make sure that it is possible to drive into and out of the water safely.
3. Check the ramp angle and the firmness of the ground on the banks.
4. Select a suitable driving profile (→ Driving profile selection).
Driving through standing or slow-moving water
If the ground is firm enough, your vehicle can be driven through standing and slow-moving water →
.
1. Drive slowly into the water following the direction of flow. Never exceed the ramp and inclination angles.
2. Drive at constant speed to the opposite bank.
Driving with a constant speed makes it possible to avoid engine damage due to ingress of water. It also enables an air pocket to form in
front of the engine which supplies the necessary oxygen to the engine. You will create a bow wave in front of the vehicle if you drive at
speed into or through the water. This bow wave could get into the engine air intake duct and seriously damage the engine.
Driving through fast-flowing water
The force, speed and depth of the water can be unpredictable and dangerous → . The vehicle can be can be swept away by the
water. Even vehicles with greater ground clearance can get stuck if the ground under the vehicle is swept away. Flowing water builds
up at one side of the vehicle, making it deeper at that point.
Do not take any risks. Find a calmer place to cross through the water or turn round.
After driving through water
1. Check the vehicle for damage.
2. Dry the brakes using careful braking manoeuvres.
WARNING
Flowing water can develop enormous power and can sweep the vehicle away. This can cause accidents and serious or fatal injuries.
● Never stop the vehicle in water.
WARNING
Soft ground surfaces, underwater obstacles and shallows or water in the bonnet space can lead to critical situations and can cause
the vehicle to break down. This can cause accidents and serious or fatal injuries.
● Do not exceed the maximum fording depth of the vehicle.
● Always make sure that there is enough ground clearance underneath the vehicle.
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