How to Deal with a Flooded Vehicle?
2 Answers
Do not start a flooded vehicle under any circumstances, as the intake system may draw water into the engine, causing engine damage. Instead, contact a towing company immediately. The ECU and wiring harness must be thoroughly cleaned to prevent short circuits and damage to the ECU. Additionally, the vehicle's chassis must be treated to avoid rust formation. The entire vehicle should be stripped, including removing the floor mats, to ensure all water is drained from the body. Rust-proofing measures should be applied, and it's advisable to replace the wiring harness and ECU. It's best to file an insurance claim. Natural disasters like heavy rain and floods are typically covered under commercial insurance, while water submersion and engine damage caused by restarting the vehicle require additional coverage like flood insurance.
Hey, when dealing with a flooded car, safety must always come first. Once the water recedes, immediately check if the car is parked in a low-lying area, and never attempt to start the engine! Water may have entered the exhaust pipe or intake, and starting it could cause severe internal damage or even engine seizure. Call a tow truck right away to move the car to higher, dry ground. If you're handy, you can disconnect the battery's negative terminal to prevent electrical shorts and potential fires. Next, address the interior: open all doors and windows for ventilation, remove carpets and seat cushions, and hang them up to dry—otherwise, they may develop mold and odors. Professional repair is a must afterward—a skilled technician will use high-pressure air to dry electrical connections and inspect critical components like the engine and ABS for corrosion. Flood-damaged cars may have lingering issues, such as brake failures or AC odors, so post-repair maintenance should never be neglected. In short, act quickly and wisely—spending on expert help is far better than taking risks.
