Should I take my car to a 4S shop for inspection after driving through water?
2 Answers
After driving through water, it is necessary to take your car to a 4S shop for inspection. The following parts should be checked: 1. Vehicle chassis: During the process of driving through water, the chassis will be washed by accumulated water, and dirt will adhere to the gaps in the chassis or under the body. If not cleaned in time, this dirt can cause rust on the chassis. Additionally, dead branches, leaves, and discarded plastic bags can wrap around the bearings and suspension, creating safety hazards. 2. Headlights: Headlights are crucial equipment for driving in rainy, foggy weather or at night, and their working condition directly affects driving safety. If the headlight cover is not well-sealed, water can easily enter during driving through water, forming mist inside the headlight and affecting the light's transmission. 3. Air filter: The air filter is located at the entrance of the engine; air entering through the intake passes through the air filter before entering the engine. When driving through water, water can also enter the engine through the intake. 4. Steering universal joint ball cage: The steering universal joint ball cage is wrapped with a dust cover. If the dust cover is damaged, water can enter the ball cage when driving through water. The most direct effect is the loss of power steering, making the steering feel heavy. In severe cases, it can even cause the steering to lock up. If this happens while driving, the consequences could be unimaginable.
Speaking of post-flood vehicle inspections, I experienced a similar situation myself last year. After a heavy rain, my car got quite deeply flooded, and I initially didn't pay much attention and drove straight home. Within a few days, the engine started shaking violently during startup. When I took it to the repair shop, they found water had seeped into the air filter and nearly damaged the electrical system. After a friend reminded me, I immediately went to the 4S dealership. They used professional equipment to detect issues like chassis rust and water contamination in the brake fluid lines, then performed thorough cleaning, drying, and part replacements for just 800 RMB - much cheaper than major repairs later. Had I waited longer, the engine might have needed complete replacement, which would've cost several times more and been dangerous. So my lesson is: if floodwater reaches above half the wheel hub depth, get a comprehensive inspection at the 4S dealership without fail. They can handle delicate components like batteries and ECU boards to ensure driving safety. Never cut corners - prevention is always more cost-effective than repairs!
