Is it a serious problem if water reaches the seat level in a flooded car?
2 Answers
It is a very serious problem if water reaches the seat level in a car. Water reaching the seats inside the car indicates that the interior has been flooded, and many electronic components may have been submerged, which can easily lead to damage. Factors to measure the severity of flooding: The severity of a flooded car depends on the height of the water submersion and whether the vehicle was started while submerged. If the water only reaches below the seats and hasn't reached the vehicle's air intake, fuse box, or dashboard area, the impact on the vehicle is relatively minor after proper cleaning. Precautions during cleanup: At this height, water may have reached the transmission, oil pan, and exhaust pipe. Therefore, during cleanup, it is necessary to replace the transmission fluid, engine oil, and brake fluid, as well as perform maintenance on the vehicle's braking system, exhaust pipe, and catalytic converter. These steps can further minimize the impact of flooding on the vehicle's future use.
If the water level reaches the height of the seats, the problem is truly severe! As someone who has been driving and repairing cars for decades, the most common outcome in such situations is complete destruction of the electrical system. Under the seats, there are densely packed wiring, computer modules, and sensors—once submerged, they short-circuit and burn out immediately. Not only will the car fail to start, but there's also a risk of fire or explosion. The interior is equally devastated: carpets and foam materials absorb water and mold, emitting a nauseating musty smell months later, along with bacteria growth that's harmful to health. Not to mention the rust on the chassis—bearings and brake systems corrode, causing creaking noises while driving and posing significant safety hazards. When taken to a repair shop, the disassembly often reveals repair costs that might exceed the car's value. In severe cases, it's recommended to scrap the vehicle entirely. Never attempt to drive a car submerged to this depth. After it stalls, have it towed to a professional shop for a thorough inspection to avoid endless future troubles.
