Is a car directly scrapped if the water level reaches the dashboard?

[DelAurora]

When a vehicle is flooded and the water level reaches the height of the dashboard, it usually exceeds the height of the vehicle's engine as well. Such a vehicle is referred to as a completely flooded car and is undrivable. The difference between recommended scrapping and mandatory scrapping: Recommended scrapping suggests that the vehicle should be scrapped, but if it still meets the requirements for continued use, it may not be scrapped. Mandatory scrapping means the vehicle must, without exception, be scrapped. The standards for mandatory scrapping include: Reaching the prescribed service life; after repair and adjustment, still failing to meet the national standards for motor vehicle safety technical requirements for in-use vehicles; after repair and adjustment or the adoption of control technologies, still failing to meet the national standards for in-use vehicles regarding atmospheric pollutant emissions or noise; failing to obtain the motor vehicle inspection qualification mark for three consecutive inspection cycles after the expiration of the inspection validity period.

[RafaelFitz]

I remember that time when my car got flooded, the water rose up to the dashboard level, the whole car was like soaking in a fish tank. Since then, I've studied many cases - it's not necessarily a total loss immediately. Dashboard-level flooding means the entire cabin is submerged, with the electrical system taking the main hit - the ECU modules, various sensors and wiring all get soaked. Even after drying, corrosion and short circuits may occur. If water enters the engine and you attempt to start it, hydro lock can seize the pistons, essentially writing off the engine. The interior doesn't fare well either - carpets and seat padding will mold and stink, requiring extensive cleaning. Repair costs range from thousands to tens of thousands, especially for luxury cars. If repairs exceed the vehicle's remaining value, it's better not to fix it. My advice is don't attempt to start it - have it towed to a specialized shop to check waterline marks and critical components before deciding on totaling it. Insurance usually covers some costs - file a claim for assessment. If it's totaled immediately, consider it damage control. Safety always comes first - don't risk driving such a car, the electrical fire hazard is too high.

[EmmaDella]

With decades of driving experience, I can say the chances of survival are slim when submerged this deep. Dashboard flooding is no joke—it indicates water has reached critical areas. Short circuits in electrical systems are common consequences, with airbag and seatbelt functions likely failing, multiplying safety risks. Even after repairs, hidden corrosion or electronic faults can suddenly emerge during rainy weather, especially dangerous at highway speeds. Forcing the engine to start after water intake may cause cylinder deformation, with repair costs often exceeding the vehicle's residual value. Worse yet, damp and moldy interiors threaten respiratory health. From a practical standpoint, if the car is over 5 years old, I'd recommend considering scrapping it outright—don't bother with repairs. Contact your insurance company for evaluation; they can provide professional advice or compensation options. Don't risk major problems to save small money.

[CatherineLynn]

If the water has reached this level, the repair costs might just discourage you. Water immersion at the dashboard level usually causes a complete circuit failure, and replacing the computer modules and sensors can be shockingly expensive—even for low-end cars, it can cost thousands. If the engine is also damaged, repairs become even less cost-effective, and if the cost exceeds the vehicle's current market value, it's best to scrap it. Insurance is a lifesaver if you have full coverage—after filing a claim, they'll send an expert to assess the damage. If it's deemed a total loss, you'll receive compensation to buy a new car. Check the vehicle's age and mileage; if it's an older car with low residual value, scrapping is the wise choice. Avoid attempting to start it, as this will only increase the damage. Crunch the numbers from an economic standpoint, and scrapping is often the better option.