At what water level does a car reach the criteria for scrapping?
3 Answers
Water entering the interior or the engine compartment can render a car eligible for scrapping. The metal components of the body are prone to rust, the electrical circuits are susceptible to short circuits, and various plastic parts may harden and age. These issues can easily lead to vehicle malfunctions or even spontaneous combustion. Repairing a water-damaged car is extremely difficult and costly. The hazards of water immersion in cars include: 1. Corrosion damage to the chassis: If the water level is not too deep, just above the chassis and entering the cabin, it can cause corrosive damage to the bolts used to secure external attachments at the bottom of the vehicle, weakening their tensile strength and potentially leading to detachment. 2. Odor and mold hazards: Any water that enters the car interior turns into an acidic mixture, which is absorbed by the interior fabrics. When heated, mold growth is inevitable, leading to unpleasant odors. If not cleaned properly, this can also corrode adjacent metal parts, reducing their strength and hardness. 3. Engine and transmission stability hazards: Static water immersion is relatively less harmful, requiring only the cleaning or replacement of external and electronic components. Dynamic water immersion is more severe, often necessitating a complete engine disassembly and reassembly. Without professional disassembly, repair, and replacement at a 4S shop, it is difficult to ensure the precision of engine assembly, leading to potential repeated repairs in the future.
That time my car got submerged in a heavy rainstorm, with water almost reaching the dashboard, and the insurance company directly declared it a total loss. I recall that the general standard is that a car may be totaled if water reaches above the seat level, because water entering the cabin can cause electrical system short circuits, and seats can corrode or mold. If water reaches the hood, although it doesn’t necessarily mean immediate total loss, it’s troublesome if the engine sucks in water—it might require a major overhaul. The actual decision to total the car depends on the extent of flooding and repair costs: if water rises above the dashboard or higher, repair expenses could exceed the car’s current value, prompting the insurer to declare it a total loss. Some cars submerged up to the roof in deep water are basically beyond saving. The key is to exit the vehicle quickly, avoid attempting to start it, and seek professional assessment, as flood-damaged cars pose many subsequent risks, such as a high chance of brake failure.
In my work, I've handled numerous water-damaged vehicle claims. The decision to total a vehicle usually depends on the water level: if the water reaches above the dashboard, the likelihood of totaling is high. This is because water infiltration into the ECU computer board or airbag system makes repairs complex and expensive, often exceeding the vehicle's residual value. Water damage levels are categorized: below the wheel hubs has minimal impact; reaching the seats often totals the interior; above the dashboard means all electronics are compromised. Insurance companies assess immersion duration: short-term flooding to the seats might be salvageable, but prolonged flooding above the dashboard is usually irreparable. I advise owners to photograph flood damage immediately and file a claim. Avoid starting or moving the vehicle to prevent further damage. Totaled flood-damaged vehicles can still be sold for parts, but their overall value is effectively zero.
