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