Driving through a puddle in the rain the car shut off?

2007 HONDA CIVIC
194,000 MILES
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STEVEN619HURT
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Drive on freeway and my car powered off when going into a puddle should i let it sit give it few days?
Nov 9, 2022 at 2:53 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

How big was the puddle? As far as the no-start condition, the first thing I would think was affected is the crankshaft position sensor.

You may have to wait to see if something dries allowing it to start. However, I would at least disconnect the crankshaft position sensor and see if it is wet.

Also, let me know the model. Is it an LX, DX, GX, Si? Let me know if you checked fuses as well.


Let me know.

Joe
Nov 9, 2022 at 9:31 AM
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STEVEN619HURT
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The puddle was small, but my car is really low to the ground not too low, it's a two door, EX model. yeah, i go and crank it, it makes a weird noise. i will check all fuses first thing in the morning tomorrow. i knew it might have been that, because the engine and everything else seemed fine. i will try to see if the crank shaft is wet.
Nov 9, 2022 at 11:12 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

When you crank it, how would you best describe the noise? Also, is it possible for you to record it cranking and upload it for me to hear? If so, have a helper crank the engine while you have the hood up and record so I can hear it.

The idea that it makes a weird noise may indicate a different issue.

Let me know,

Joe
Nov 9, 2022 at 12:46 PM
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STEVEN619HURT
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It's a rapid clicking noise and yes, i can provide a video.
Nov 10, 2022 at 2:13 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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A rapid clicking usually indicates a weak battery. The water may have gotten to the alternator. Do me a favor. Try this simple battery load test and let me know what you find:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-battery-load-test

Let me know.

Joe
Nov 10, 2022 at 11:27 AM
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STEVEN619HURT
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Here's the video:
Nov 10, 2022 at 11:42 AM
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STEVEN619HURT
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There's power running though interior lights turn on headlights everything just won't start i sent video not sure if you were able to view it.
Nov 10, 2022 at 11:47 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
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Hi,

I just watched the video, and it sounds like a weak battery. Do this. Turn the headlamps on and crank the engine. Do the lights get extremely dim? If they do, remove the battery and have it load-tested at a parts store. Most will do it for free.

If the battery is good, I'm questioning if the starter itself was damaged.

Let me know.

Joe
Nov 10, 2022 at 11:51 AM
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STEVEN619HURT
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Okay, i will check if the lights are dim going back to my car and will have to remove my battery and take it to AutoZone to test it first thing after work tomorrow. I will keep you updated.
Nov 10, 2022 at 11:56 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

Sounds like a plan. Let me know what you find. Also, and this is just another thought, when you went through the puddle, did anything hit under the vehicle? If the battery is good and the starter is making that noise (and this is very unlikely) I wonder if something caused the engine to lock.

Regardless, let me know what you find. If the battery is good, confirm you can turn the engine by hand.

Take care,

Joe
Nov 10, 2022 at 12:02 PM
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STEVEN619HURT
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Hi, no, i didn't hit anything and the lights flicker like there not working.
Nov 11, 2022 at 6:59 AM
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STEVEN619HURT
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Here's video not sure if you can see light flickering:
Nov 11, 2022 at 7:05 AM
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STEVEN619HURT
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It was the battery after all worn out and bad. i appreciate the help.
Nov 11, 2022 at 12:05 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

No problem whatsoever. I'm glad you found the issue. I had a feeling that was the cause, but the timing of hitting the puddle was odd. LOL

Regardless, take care, and feel free to come back anytime in the future.

Joe
Nov 11, 2022 at 1:54 PM
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STEVEN619HURT
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Thanks dude.
Nov 12, 2022 at 2:23 AM
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