Can a Flooded Car Be Unlocked and the Door Opened?
2 Answers
No, because the water pressure is too high. When the car cabin is completely filled with water, the pressure difference between the inside and outside balances out, making it possible to open the door as if in the air. Below are the damage assessment standards for flooded vehicles: 1. Waterlogged car: The water level exceeds the car's chassis, referred to as a waterlogged car. 2. Partially flooded car: The water level exceeds the oil dipstick, known as a partially flooded car. 3. Fully flooded car: The water level exceeds the engine hood or the dashboard surface, termed a fully flooded car. Additional information: A flooded car refers to a vehicle that has been submerged in water, typically meaning the engine and transmission have been soaked, with the water depth exceeding the wheels and car seats, and the bottom components of the car body in prolonged contact with water. Such vehicles pose significant risks, as the electrical circuits are prone to short circuits and fires.
I know exactly how this feels. Last time during a typhoon, my car was submerged in half a meter of water. I tried to open the door but it wouldn't budge. The electronic locks usually fail after being waterlogged—the remote key fob didn't respond because the control module short-circuited due to water ingress. Even the mechanical keyhole might get jammed with mud and debris, making it impossible to turn. The only option was to wait for the water level to recede before dealing with it. The biggest concern is safety risks: submerged door handles could leak electricity, and hybrid vehicles' high-voltage batteries are especially hazardous. In the end, I called a professional rescue team—they disconnected the power first before opening the door. Even if you manage to unlock a flood-damaged car, don't drive it. Water in the engine can destroy the transmission. The cleanup costs afterward are exorbitant—just replacing the wiring harness cost me 8,000 yuan.
