[287]

The X1 handbook states a modest depth for deep water of 25cm, what a true 4x4 would call ‘wading depth’. Does anyone know where the air intake on the petrol engine is in case one accidentally goes a little deeper? I’m most interested in the 1.5 petrol engine in the PHEV.

[Bogdan_CH]

The PHEV has batteries on the underbody. That one reason alone I wouldn't take these cares in deeep waters.

[287]

Thanks for the response Bogdan_CH. It seems nobody else has any comment they’d like to make.
One of the reasons I am interested is this I found on the old X1 forum where a guy with a new motor wrecked the engine.

https://f48.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=1802249

[Bogdan_CH]

I briefly took a look of the story abovenand honestly as I this seems like an isolated case I just believe the owner was either unlucky or not sharing the full story. Engines are sealed, air intake on all cars are at least 20 inches / 50 cm above ground so driving over a puddle I would worry. Driving through deep water well I would recommend that only if your with a G wagen / defender running diesel and a snorkel kit and even so, dirty water gets EVERYWHERE like axles, batteries etc so that would make me think twice if I care for my car or try to make it a submarine.

[donnus]

Originally Posted by 287

The X1 handbook states a modest depth for deep water of 25cm, what a true 4x4 would call ‘wading depth’. Does anyone know where the air intake on the petrol engine is in case one accidentally goes a little deeper? I’m most interested in the 1.5 petrol engine in the PHEV.

i had read 29cm somewhere, which is still very little (the X3 was 50cm).
the air intake is on top of the radiator, making it very unlikely that water enters this, when wading at a 30cm or near depth.
There is still the issue of differential and gearbox vents, wiring looms etc.

[SpaceSilverX1]

sooner or later, some UK driver with the X1 will end up on this YouTube channel!

[287]

Great! The only words spoken were at the end with a load of registration plates ripped off, “They are all BMWs” .