At what flood level can a vehicle be considered for scrapping?
4 Answers
Flooding reaching the engine hood is equivalent to the vehicle being scrapped, and even if not scrapped, repairs would cost approximately 80% of the vehicle's value. Below is relevant information: Flood-damaged vehicles: These refer to vehicles that have been submerged in water, typically where the engine and transmission have been soaked, with water levels exceeding the wheels and seats, and the underbody components being in prolonged contact with water. Such vehicles pose significant risks, as the electrical systems are prone to short circuits and fires. Scrap vehicles: These are vehicles that have either reached a certain age or have suffered severe damage or poor technical conditions beyond repair, with fuel consumption exceeding 50% of the national standard, and are mandated by government regulations to be scrapped.
Oh, I remember a friend's car got flooded up to the seat level. At first, he insisted on repairing it, but after fixing it, there were repeated electrical short-circuit issues. After several rounds of trouble, he finally decided to scrap it. Water level standards are quite important: generally divided into four levels. Below the wheel hub is mild and easier to repair; up to the seat height is moderate with high risk; above the dashboard is severe and basically should be scrapped; if the roof is submerged, it's definitely a write-off. If the water level is above the dashboard, the engine might take in water, and the electronic systems could be completely ruined. The repair costs can easily exceed tens of thousands, not worth the car's value, and it's unsafe with many hidden risks. If the flooding is this severe, take my advice—scrap it early and get a new car for peace of mind.
In the insurance industry, water level height is commonly used to determine the total loss standard: submerging the wheel hub is considered Level 0 with simple repairs needed; flooding the floor is Level 1 requiring a comprehensive inspection; reaching the seats is Level 2 which likely leads to a total loss; and submerging the dashboard at Level 3 or above almost always initiates the total loss process. Having handled claims, I've seen that repair costs for water reaching the seats often exceed 60% of the vehicle's value, not to mention the subsequent depreciation. When water levels are high, electronic modules get damaged, increasing safety risks, so insurers typically lean toward totaling the vehicle when water reaches 50 cm. From experience, if water surpasses the dashboard, don't hesitate—total loss is the most cost-effective option.
Having worked in car repair for many years, I've seen plenty of flood-damaged vehicles. If the water level rises above the air intake, the engine is prone to damage; if it surpasses the dashboard, the electrical circuits are almost certainly ruined and difficult to repair properly. As a rule of thumb, once the water reaches seat height, extreme caution is warranted; if it goes over the dashboard, it's better to write the car off outright—saving time and hassle. Even if repaired, such vehicles often develop recurring issues, making abandonment the wiser choice.
