Should a Flood-Damaged Car Be Scrapped or Repaired?
2 Answers
Whether a damaged vehicle should be scrapped is determined by professional insurance assessors. If the vehicle's damage reaches 70% or more of its actual value, it is generally considered a total loss. For cars with severe flood damage exceeding 70%, scrapping is usually the better option. Conversely, if the flood damage is minor with minimal impact, repair is more advisable. Additional details are as follows: 1. Vehicle Scrapping: A car is classified as scrap when it meets national scrapping standards or, even if not meeting those standards, has severe engine or chassis damage that fails to comply with national safety technical requirements for motor vehicle operation or emission standards. 2. Flood-Damaged Cars: These refer to vehicles that have been submerged in water, typically involving water exposure to the engine and transmission, with immersion depth exceeding the wheels and seats, and prolonged contact between the vehicle's underbody components and water. Such vehicles pose significant risks, as their electrical systems are prone to short circuits and potential fires.
I've seen quite a few flood-damaged cars, and the key is to see how high the water reached. If the water level just passed the chassis, you can still salvage it by completely removing and cleaning the interior, drying it thoroughly, and replacing the wiring harness connectors—costing just a few thousand bucks. But if the water submerged the dashboard, ruining the engine and ECU, I'd recommend totaling it outright. The worst are the partially submerged cars—they might seem fine after repairs, but within six months, the electronics start acting up, and the AC reeks of mold. Remember, never keep the carpet in a flood-damaged car; that thing soaks up filthy water and never loses the stench.
