How Long Does It Take to Repair a Flooded Car?
2 Answers
It takes about one month to repair a flooded car. Below are the specific details for repairing a water-damaged vehicle: 1. Check the circuits: If the circuits are normal, the car can start normally. 2. Extent of water damage: The damage is categorized into three levels based on severity. The first level is when the water depth exceeds the wheels and enters the interior. The second level is when the water depth exceeds the dashboard. The third level is when the water submerges the roof. Among these three categories, the first level is the most common and poses significantly less harm compared to the latter two. After repair, it has minimal impact on daily use. For the latter two levels—where water exceeds the center console or completely submerges the vehicle—issues may persist even after repair.
I've repaired quite a few flood-damaged cars, and the time required really depends on the vehicle's condition. The water level is crucial—was the engine submerged or just the footwell? Minor flooding might take just a few days to fix, mainly involving removing and drying the interior. But if the water reached above the dashboard, causing corrosion in the electrical systems, expect at least two to three weeks. Repair shops need to inspect wiring and computer modules one by one, and parts shortages could extend the wait. Remember to disconnect the battery first to prevent short circuits, and tow it to a professional shop ASAP—don't skimp on towing fees. Well-maintained cars recover faster, while older ones may need longer overhauls. Bottom line: safety first—never drive a flood-damaged car as-is to avoid fire risks later. Get quotes from multiple shops; don't just chase the cheapest option, as it could affect overall repair time.
