Can an Electric Vehicle Still Be Used After Being Submerged in Water?

[LucilleRose]

Whether an electric vehicle can still be used after being submerged in water depends on the extent of the submersion. Here are the specific details about a car after being submerged in water: 1. Component rust: A vehicle submerged in water is highly prone to rusting of body components, shortening its service life and reducing safety performance. 2. Short-circuit and stalling: A water-submerged vehicle can cause corrosion and rusting of the wiring, leading to sudden stalling or spontaneous combustion due to short circuits while driving. 3. Expensive repairs: The repair costs for water-submerged vehicles are very high. In cases of severe water ingress, the repair expenses may exceed 50% of the vehicle's original price.

[LeKeegan]

Let me make it clear whether an electric vehicle can still be used after being submerged in water. Because the high-voltage battery of an electric car may short-circuit and catch fire if it gets wet, which is extremely dangerous. If you find your car submerged, do not attempt to start it immediately—doing so could cause thermal runaway of the battery, leading to an explosion and endangering lives. Instead, quickly remove the key or cut off the power and call a tow truck to take it to a professional repair shop. The technician will check the depth of the water submersion—for example, if it's only below the wheels, there might still be hope, but if it's above the floorboard, the car is likely a total loss. Remember, safety comes first—it's better to scrap the car than take risks. Even if a water-damaged car is repaired, there will still be hidden corrosion issues, making it prone to malfunctions in the long run. It's advisable to park on higher ground during the rainy season and keep emergency rescue numbers handy just in case.

[CatherineLee]

From a technical perspective, electric vehicles are likely to become unusable after being submerged in water. Although the battery pack is sealed, water ingress can cause electrolyte leakage and electrode corrosion, posing a risk of thermal runaway. Additionally, the motor controller and wiring will short-circuit upon contact with water, potentially burning out the circuit board. After water submersion, it's essential to disconnect the low-voltage battery and use professional tools to test insulation. The repair costs are high, sometimes requiring replacement of the entire battery pack at a cost of tens of thousands, making it cost-ineffective. It's best to have the vehicle towed to a 4S dealership for inspection, where they use specialized equipment for drying and checking. Remember, do not attempt DIY repairs to avoid exacerbating the damage. Even after repairs, water-damaged vehicles often retain hidden issues that affect driving efficiency.

[LaBraxton]

Whether an electric vehicle can be used after being submerged in water depends on the flooding situation. If it's just shallow water up to the wheels, the battery and critical components might be fine—towing it away for repairs could get it running again. However, deep flooding, such as water above the door sill, will likely damage the high-voltage system, making repairs uneconomical. I've read reports where insurers often declare flooded EVs a total loss, as replacing the car is more cost-effective. Repair costs can run into tens of thousands, with battery replacement being the major expense. Avoid attempting to start the car to save money, as this may void insurance coverage. Opt for insurance with flood coverage and apply rust-proofing treatments to reduce risks. Ultimately, assess the damage before deciding whether to repair or replace.