Can a Car Start After Being Submerged in Water and the Water Recedes?

[ArielDella]

After a car has been submerged in water and the water recedes, it should not be started. Attempting to start a submerged car can cause severe damage to the engine, potentially leading to complete engine failure. In such cases, it is necessary to call a tow truck to transport the vehicle to a repair shop for a thorough inspection of the damage. Below are the steps to handle a water-damaged car: 1. For cars covered by comprehensive insurance: Report the incident to the insurance company. An insurance adjuster will arrive to assess the damage and determine whether the car should be repaired or compensated. The vehicle should be towed out of the water as soon as possible. Note: Do not attempt to power on or start the car before the insurance adjuster arrives. 2. For cars without comprehensive insurance: (1) If the water level did not exceed the top of the tires: If most of the car was submerged only up to the bumper, the majority of the electrical circuits are likely unaffected. In this case, inspect and repair the circuits at the bottom of the vehicle. (2) If the water level exceeded the top of the tires: The electrical circuits, engine, and other components are likely submerged. Necessary actions include replacing the engine oil, oil filter, transmission fluid, and airbag control module; draining water from the intake manifold; cleaning the engine surface, fuel injectors, and throttle body; removing and drying all seats and carpets; and inspecting and repairing engine wiring and performing engine computer diagnostics.

[LeDominic]

I've experienced the nightmare of having my car flooded. Never rush to start the engine after the water recedes, or you could really damage your vehicle. That day during a heavy rainstorm, water rose to the chassis level. As soon as the water subsided, I anxiously tried to start the car, only to hear a dull "thud" from the engine. When towed for repairs, I learned water had caused piston seizure - costing over 2,000 RMB in repairs. Now I know better: always check if the air filter is soaked, whether there's residual water in the exhaust pipe, and inspect electrical connectors for short circuit signs. The safest approach is not to start the engine at all, but directly call a tow truck to take it to a proper repair shop for inspection - penny wise and pound foolish otherwise. For daily parking, always choose higher ground to avoid flood risks. Safety first.

[ColemanRose]

From an automotive repair perspective, never attempt to start the engine after water recedes—it's far too risky. Water may have seeped into the engine block or spark plug ignition system, causing hydrolock upon startup, which can bend pistons or snap connecting rods. Electrical systems are even more prone to short circuits, potentially blowing fuses and frying ECU modules. My advice: first check for residual water under cabin carpets and inspect chassis wiring harnesses for corrosion. If water intrusion occurred, disassemble, clean, dry thoroughly, and test components. Ideally, have a technician perform a full diagnostic scan for trouble codes. Avoid the gamble of ignition—it could save you costly repairs.

[DanielAnn]

As an experienced driver, I strongly advise against starting the engine. Safety is more important than anything. Just because the water has receded doesn't mean there's no water left in the car, especially if the engine air intake has been submerged. Starting the engine could draw water in, leading to hydro-lock or stalling, which is hard to control even in rainy conditions. I've seen a friend's car get completely ruined after attempting to start it post-flooding—the wiring burned out and it nearly caught fire. My advice is to wait at least two days after the water has dried, check for rust on the battery terminals, and ensure no warning lights are flashing on the dashboard. Before driving, take a walk around to check for any remaining water under the chassis. Prevention is key.