Can Flood-Damaged Cars Still Be Driven?

[McNora]

Whether a car can still be driven after being submerged in water depends on the extent of the water damage. Here are the specific details: Introduction to Flood-Damaged Cars: In simple terms, a flood-damaged car is one that has been exposed to water, but not all water-exposed cars are necessarily flood-damaged. These cars are categorized into three levels based on the extent of water exposure: water-damaged cars, water-soaked cars, and fully submerged cars. Since the depth of water exposure is directly related to the height of the chassis, off-road vehicles and SUVs with higher ground clearance generally have better water-wading capabilities, while sports cars and sedans, with their lower chassis closer to the ground, are more susceptible to water ingress. Identifying Flood-Damaged Cars: Smell for a musty odor inside the car. Hidden areas such as floor mats, trunk liners, and under the seats may have a musty smell. If you detect a musty odor or an unusually strong fragrance, be cautious. Check for rust on screws in concealed parts of the vehicle. Pull out the seats to inspect the tracks for rust or sand. Extend the seatbelt fully to check the end for water stains or dirt.