At what water level is a car considered flooded?
1 Answers
The criteria for defining a flooded vehicle are as follows: If the water level exceeds half of the wheel height and enters the interior, it is called a water-soaked vehicle; if the water reaches the engine hood, it is called a flooded vehicle; if the water exceeds the roof, it is called a submerged vehicle. The specific water levels and impacts when a car is submerged are: 1. Water just reaching the chassis—the floor may get damp, but significant water ingress is unlikely, and the impact on electrical components is minimal. 2. Water exceeding half of the wheel height—due to the vehicle's incomplete sealing, water begins entering the cabin. For low-sedan models, the water level may affect seat adjustment motors, heating, ventilation, and other electrical components. 3. Water almost completely covering the tires—the cabin water level will submerge the seat cushions and center console, affecting numerous electrical systems. 4. Water reaching the engine hood—the cabin water rises to the dashboard level, and the headlights and engine air intake begin taking in water. 5. Water fully covering the engine hood—nearly all interior electrical components will be compromised. 6. Water exceeding the roof—the headliner and sunroof module sustain damage, with no interior component remaining unaffected.
