Can a Car Submerged in Floodwater Still Be Driven?
2 Answers
A car submerged in floodwater should not be driven. Here are the precautions for driving a car that has encountered floodwater: 1. Assess the depth of the water: If the water level does not exceed half the height of the wheels, it is safe to drive; otherwise, it is not recommended to continue driving. 2. Use snow mode: After entering a flooded area, slow down and drive cautiously. For automatic transmission cars, try to use first gear and preferably switch to snow mode to prevent wheel slippage. 3. Apply continuous braking: After exiting the flooded area, brake several times in succession to evaporate the moisture in the brake discs, ensuring the car's braking performance is not affected.
My neighbor's car was flooded last year, with water reaching up to the seat level. The mechanic found that the engine had taken in water, which was sucked back into the cylinders, causing internal deformation and making the car sound very loud when driven. The car's battery also short-circuited and burned out. Later, the entire wiring harness corroded and rusted, and even the air conditioning fan would malfunction from time to time. After repairs, it suddenly stalled at a traffic light a few days later, which was terrifying. The worst part is that mold grew inside, giving off a sour smell. I strongly advise against driving it—floodwater pressure is high, and the frame may have deformed, with a high risk of airbag failure. Even if repaired, hidden dangers remain. Driving it long-term would lead to constant issues and high costs. It’s better to scrap it or buy a new car for safety.
