Can a Car Submerged in Rainwater Still Be Driven?
2 Answers
Whether a damaged vehicle should be scrapped is determined by professional insurance companies. If the vehicle's loss exceeds 70% of its actual value, it is generally considered a total loss. For vehicles severely submerged in water with damage exceeding 70% or more, scrapping is the better option. However, if the water damage is minor and the vehicle's damage is minimal, repair is more advisable. Additional details are as follows: 1. Vehicle Scrapping: A vehicle is considered scrapped if it meets the national scrapping standards or, even if it does not, has severe engine or chassis damage that fails to meet the national safety technical requirements for motor vehicle operation or the national pollutant emission standards. 2. Flood-Damaged Cars: These refer to vehicles that have been submerged in water, typically involving the engine and transmission being soaked, with water levels exceeding the wheels and seats, and prolonged contact between the vehicle's underbody components and water. Such vehicles pose significant risks, as the electrical systems are prone to short circuits, fires, etc.
A car soaked in rainwater is no small matter. A friend of mine started his car after a flood, and the engine locked up immediately, with all the circuits burnt out, costing nearly ten thousand yuan in major repairs. I suggest you first check the depth of the water immersion: if the water level was above the wheel hubs, the risk is high; if it didn’t reach that point, it might just be the chassis getting wet. Don’t rush to start the engine, as water entering the engine or transmission could make things worse. Tow it to a repair shop to check the battery, air filter, and electronic systems. They can test for short circuits or corrosion. Regular maintenance of the underbody coating can also prevent such accidents. In short, safety comes first—don’t take the risk of driving it.
