Honda Amaze Ends Up in River as Driver Follows Google Maps Too Seriously

With a constantly-expanding road network, it is easy to get confused and get lost. Therefore, drivers are often seen using Google Maps as onboard assistance. The software helps the drivers in navigating them through the fastest possible route. It is free from human errors but has its own set of limitations. At times, Google Maps application has navigated its users to river beds or even cliffs. This time around, we came across a similar accident via a social media platform where a Honda Amaze ended up in a river. The images of the incident were shared by the owner of Honda Amaze – Shivaram Balajepalli, who hails from Andhra Pradesh.

As narrated by the owner in his post, he was following Google Maps’ instruction to reach his destination. However, the maps mistook a river for a road and directed the driver into it. Fortunately, the Amaze got stuck at a point where the water level was not high enough to reach the air filter housing. The owner claims that the engine was running perfectly fine till the time he reached the service centre. However, the check engine light showed up later. Upon asking about the cost of repairs, the service station confirmed that the insurance policy does not cover flood damages. Thankfully, the car started running perfectly fine after a few cranks, and no sign of water seepage was seen around the air filter housing.

Well, it was the sheer luck of the Amaze owner, that water level was lower than the air intake. While it helped in keeping the car’s engine away from water damage, it also kept the owner away from expensive repair costs. Such an incident should be a sign of alarm for those who follow navigation systems inattentively. Moreover, a driver should physically inspect a water body before attempting to cross it. At times, a river may not be deep enough to kill a car, while a puddle can do so. Talking of the Honda Amaze, it is offered with a 1.2L petrol motor and 1.5L diesel engine in the Indian market. Prices start at Rs. 6.22 lakh and go up to Rs. 9.99 lakh.