If the node cannot sync, the wallet might be fine. But a reindex helps the wallet read correctly:
When you start the new client, it will automatically attempt to read your wallet.dat . If your file is in the legacy Berkeley DB format, Bitcoin Core will initiate a migration process to convert it to a descriptor wallet. bitcoin core walletdat upd
Your wallet.dat is your bank. Treat it like a stack of $100 bills wrapped in a love letter from your future self. Back it up, protect it, and never update without a safety net. If the node cannot sync, the wallet might be fine