Is it serious if water reaches the car seats?
4 Answers
It is serious if water reaches the car seats. Here is relevant information: Water submersion height: The severity of a flooded car depends on the height of water submersion and whether the vehicle was started in water; Water reaches under the seats: If the water only reaches under the seats, this height has not yet reached the vehicle's air intake, nor the fuse box and dashboard. After thorough cleaning, the impact on the vehicle is relatively minor; Timely repairs: If the water reaches the transmission, oil pan, and exhaust pipe, then during cleaning, it is necessary to replace the transmission fluid, engine oil, and brake fluid, as well as clean and maintain the vehicle's braking system, exhaust pipe, and catalytic converter. This can further reduce the impact of flooding on the vehicle's subsequent use.
Recently my car got flooded up to the seat level during a heavy rainstorm, which was quite severe to be honest. Water seeped into the seats and soaked the foam padding, not only damaging the interior but also leaving a persistent musty smell that makes driving uncomfortable. More critically, the electronic systems like the airbag control module and audio unit might have short-circuited - repairs for those can get expensive fast. I immediately called a tow truck to take it to the repair shop where they disassembled the interior for thorough cleaning/drying and replaced some parts, costing several thousand yuan. My advice: never start the engine after water exposure to prevent hydro-lock damage, and get professional treatment ASAP to avoid long-term corrosion or odors.
Flooding reaching seat height is no minor issue. Beneath the cabin carpet lie various electronic wires and sensors that may short-circuit after water immersion, causing malfunctions in systems like power windows and engine control. The seat foam itself absorbs water and is difficult to dry, breeding bacteria that pose health risks. I believe the vehicle must be immediately taken out of service and towed to a repair shop for electrical inspection and deep cleaning. Long-term neglect may lead to body rust or driving safety issues. Preventive measures are practical: avoid parking in low-lying areas and install window seals to prevent water seepage. Timely repairs may cost money, but safety comes first.
I've encountered this before. Flooded seats indicate significant water intrusion into the cabin. First, stay calm and don't start the engine to avoid water being sucked into the cylinders. Tow it to a repair shop immediately. Technicians will remove seats and carpets to dry circuits with compressed air, possibly replacing damaged wiring harnesses. Interior components need sun-drying and disinfection to prevent mold. Costs depend on submersion duration - ranging from hundreds for cleaning to over a thousand for extensive repairs. Regularly inspecting underbody seals can reduce risks. With prompt action, full recovery is possible - don't delay and risk greater damage.
