How to Deal with a Flooded New Car?

[LaLeilani]

You should immediately call for rescue services and request assistance. The flooded car should be towed to a repair shop as soon as possible for disassembly and cleaning. While requesting rescue, you should also promptly call your insurance company to report the claim.

[TessaDella]

It's really unlucky to have a new car flooded. Last month, my own car encountered this situation. Never attempt to start the vehicle, as water entering the engine can cause more severe mechanical damage. Contact your insurance company immediately to file a claim and take photos of the waterline as evidence. If the flooding level exceeds the seat base, the repair costs often surpass the vehicle's residual value, making it more cost-effective to apply for a total loss write-off. The 4S shop will help you dismantle the seats and carpets for drying, but pay special attention to the electrical system, which must be thoroughly inspected to avoid short-circuit risks later on. I recommend closely monitoring the vehicle's condition for the next six months, as flood-damaged cars are prone to odors or electronic system failures. The most crucial step is to tow the car to a professional repair shop as soon as possible for the mechanic to assess the actual extent of the damage.

[DeHope]

When a new car is flooded, my handling process is as follows: First, disconnect the negative terminal of the battery to prevent short circuits, then immediately contact the insurance company to arrange for a tow truck—do not attempt to move the flooded vehicle yourself. Focus on inspecting three key areas: the water level marks at the air intake in the engine bay, the wiring harness connectors beneath the cabin carpet, and whether the transmission vent has been submerged. During repairs, it is essential to replace all contaminated fluids, including engine oil and transmission fluid. For interior cleaning, seats and carpets must be removed; otherwise, mold will grow in the layers within two to three months. I’ve seen many owners try to save money by avoiding professional repair shops, only to experience life-threatening failures like ABS malfunctions within six months. Even after repairs, such cars typically depreciate by over 30%, so it’s better to negotiate a total loss settlement with the insurance company.

[GabrielleLee]

My experience with flood-damaged vehicles is a three-step process: prioritize personal safety—don’t risk entering the car to retrieve items if water levels are rising quickly. After the water recedes, immediately report to the insurance company and the 4S dealership, and take 360-degree photos to document the waterline before towing. During repairs, focus on three key areas: the engine air filter location, water accumulation in the exhaust pipe tail, and moisture testing of the cabin carpets. I must emphasize that cutting corners with superficial drying is not an option—every wiring harness connector must be opened and cleaned individually. A friend’s car, for instance, had its airbag light stay on six months after repairs due to rust from the flood damage. Such repairs can cost over 30,000 RMB, making it more sensible to opt for the vehicle’s total loss process instead.