Is It Advisable to Buy a Flood-Damaged Car with Water Reaching the Seats?

[VanEmilio]

Flood-damaged cars are not recommended for purchase due to significant potential issues in the long run. Below are the hazards associated with flood-damaged vehicles for your careful consideration. Hazards of flood-damaged cars: Firstly, they can severely damage the electronic control systems inside the car. The corrosive nature of mixed rainwater can impair electrical functions, particularly affecting future usage. Here are the relevant details: 1. Flooding height: The severity of a flood-damaged car depends on the water submersion height and whether the vehicle was started while submerged. If the water only reached below the seats, not reaching the vehicle's air intake, fuse box, or central dashboard, the impact on the vehicle is relatively minor after thorough cleaning. 2. Location: At this height, water reaches the transmission, oil pan, and exhaust pipe. Therefore, during cleanup, it's necessary to replace transmission fluid, engine oil, and brake fluid, as well as perform maintenance on the vehicle's braking system, exhaust pipe, and catalytic converter to further mitigate the impact of flooding on subsequent vehicle use.