Are There Hidden Dangers in Driving a Flood-Damaged Car Yourself?

[Mitch]

Driving a flood-damaged car yourself poses hidden dangers. The major risks of flood-damaged cars are as follows: Electronic system failures: After water exposure, the engine's electronic modules are highly prone to short circuits due to rust and corrosion caused by water immersion. Additionally, car wiring is typically routed along the bottom edges of doors, making it susceptible to water damage. If these modules and circuits malfunction, minor issues may result in a loss of certain functions, while severe cases can lead to vehicle damage or even fires caused by short circuits. Engine failure: If the owner attempts to restart the vehicle after the engine stalls due to water intake, the immense reverse force can cause bent connecting rods to rub against the cylinder walls, potentially puncturing the engine block instantly. The repair costs for such damage can be astronomical, which is why it's crucial never to let the engine stall once the vehicle is submerged. Automatic transmission damage: The primary symptoms of water entering an automatic transmission include the vehicle not moving when shifted and shaking during acceleration. If not addressed promptly, this can lead to damage to the friction plates and automatic bands.