Can a Flooded Car Still Be Driven?

[StBrandon]

No. Because water has entered the cabin, submerging the chassis, floor, and even the engine. The damp interior is prone to mold and odors, while wiring harnesses and electronic control units are susceptible to corrosion, leading to potential malfunctions later on. Below are the related details: Hidden Dangers of Flooded Cars: 'Flooded cars' can be repaired to some extent, but even after repairs, serious hazards remain. The longer the immersion time, the higher the likelihood of malfunctions. This is similar to a watch falling into water—even if disassembled and dried, the watch will still malfunction and cannot be completely repaired. Hazards: Materials inside the vehicle, such as carpets and seats, may deform, become rough, and develop odors due to prolonged immersion, fostering bacterial growth. Moisture accumulates heavily on the wiring harnesses beneath the carpets, leading to short circuits caused by dampness. These submerged components are best replaced to avoid post-flooding complications. Door panels usually contain soundproofing material, which typically needs replacement. Audio speakers and other components must be replaced after water immersion, or they will fail within days.