Unfortunately I Got my Vauxhall Vivaro stuck in a 3ft puddle. The van cut out in the middle of the puddle. I managed to tow the van home and park it on a hill, to helpp drain any water that may be caught.

I have very little knowledge on what to do next as i have never been in this situation before so any advice would be greatly apprechiated.

I turned the igniton, and the dashboard lights and heaters seem to be in full working order. Although I have been advised not to start the van. Is this correct?
And is there any particular parts i should check for damage?

Many Thanks

Paul Lower, January 2011

you will have to get under motor and have a look for the drain plug,would definitely change the oil, look for the level plug on the diff,it sounds as if your motor was in very deep and you are lucky no permanent damage was done

cdc, January 2011

i have drrained the diesel tank as there was water in it seems to be running sweet as, but there is a small oil type leak that is creamy, seems to be coming out of a breather cap on top of the gearbox, any idea how to change the oil in the gearbox. this was below the water level so we assume water has got in there. would changing the gearbox oil solve the problem would very much appreciate some advice

Paul Lower, January 2011

the air filter will be soaking wet, if this is the case DO NOT try and start the motor,remove the heater plugs and turn engine over by hand to pump out water from cylinders,when no water appears then give it a crank over with the starter,refit heater plugs and cross your fingers that no damage has been done

cdc, January 2011

thanks for the advice....how will i know if it has sucked air into the filter and whats the best way to solve the problem?

thanks

Paul Lower, January 2011

check no water got into the oil, an also take airfilter off check its not sucked water in fuel system.

ross, January 2011