Can a Flooded Car Be Repaired?
3 Answers
Generally, a flooded car cannot be fully restored. Flood-damaged vehicles are broadly categorized into three types based on the water level: the first is when the water level reaches the wheels—such vehicles may still have practical value after repairs. The other two types are when the water level reaches the dashboard and when it submerges the roof—these are considered severely flooded vehicles, requiring costly repairs and posing significant potential risks even after being fixed. Insurance coverage for flooded cars: 1. Submerged while stationary: If the car is submerged while parked, the engine is usually undamaged, and compensation can be claimed if comprehensive insurance is purchased. However, if the owner attempts to start and drive the car out of the flooded area, causing engine damage, even with flood insurance, the claim will be denied. 2. Engine failure due to driving through water: If flood insurance (also known as engine-specific loss coverage) is purchased, the insurance company will cover the damage. Conversely, if only comprehensive insurance is purchased without flood insurance, only non-engine damages will be covered. Additionally, if the engine is damaged due to restarting the vehicle while submerged, even with flood insurance, the claim will not be honored.
Having worked in the auto repair industry for many years, whether a water-submerged car can be repaired depends on the water level and duration of submersion. If the water only reached below the wheel level, cleaning the chassis and replacing some parts should suffice. However, if water entered the engine or cabin, the problems become serious: circuit boards, sensors, and various connectors are prone to corrosion, leading to short circuits or malfunctions. In such cases, repairs are difficult, costly, and may leave hidden hazards. It's recommended to immediately cut off the power, avoid starting the engine, and tow the vehicle to a professional repair shop for a thorough inspection, especially the electrical system and air conditioning ducts, where water can accumulate and mold, posing health risks if not addressed promptly.
As an experienced car owner, I've been through the ordeal of having my vehicle flooded. That time, the water level reached the door handles, and the repair cost nearly 20,000 yuan to replace the entire wiring harness and some electronic components. However, six months later, the warning lights kept coming on. The mechanic explained that internal corrosion is a chronic issue that's hard to completely eliminate. My advice is: if the flooding was minor, repairs might suffice; but if it was severe, even after repairs the car depreciates quickly—it's often better to replace it sooner rather than later. Don't forget to contact your insurance company—they can help assess whether repairs are worthwhile or if going through the write-off process would be more practical.
