Should You Sell or Continue Using a Vehicle After Major Engine Overhaul Due to Water Damage?
4 Answers
After a vehicle has been submerged in water, it is generally advisable to sell it, as the engine may have sustained damage. Owners can only claim insurance compensation for water damage if they have purchased "comprehensive vehicle damage insurance." However, the coverage mainly includes damages to seats, wiring, and other components caused by water immersion. Damage to the engine due to driving through water or starting the engine while submerged is typically not covered by insurance. Correct methods for driving through water: Slow down or stop to assess the situation: When encountering standing water while driving, if the water level exceeds two-thirds of the bumper or tire height, proceeding further poses significant risks. Additionally, driving too fast through water can cause splashes to enter the cabin through the engine compartment or chassis. Always check the water level—if it is too high, try to detour rather than force your way through. Avoid stopping or shifting gears: When driving through water, maintain a steady speed in low gear with moderate throttle. Drive slowly, avoid stopping or shifting gears, and do not release the throttle. Do not restart the engine: If the engine stalls in water, take immediate action to tow the vehicle to a safe area with less water. Never attempt to restart the engine, as this can cause further damage. Remove moisture from brake pads promptly: This prevents loss of braking efficiency after driving through water, reducing the risk of accidents.
I just went through the ordeal of a major engine overhaul after my car went through water, and it's been a real headache. I've been torn between continuing to drive it or selling it. I think if the overhaul was done thoroughly—like replacing all the key components and cleaning everything properly—the car might still run for a few more years. But going forward, I'd need to regularly check the engine and wiring to prevent hidden rust or electrical issues. Selling it, though, won't fetch much. Buyers will immediately haggle or even worry about incomplete repairs once they hear it's been water-damaged, so I might have to sell it at a 30% discount. Right now, I'm still driving it and taking it to the shop for weekly check-ups, which is pretty exhausting. But economically, it's a bit more cost-effective than buying a new car. Just don't skimp on inspections—safety should always come first to avoid a breakdown or major accident on the highway.
A friend of mine once had his car submerged in water. After a major engine overhaul, he drove it for three years without any issues, but the key was that it was repaired at a reputable shop where all water traces were thoroughly cleaned and the seals were reinforced. I suggest checking the quality of the overhaul—if every step was done properly, the car can still be used for daily commuting. However, maintenance like timely oil changes is crucial to avoid engine overheating and aging issues. If you plan to sell the car, be prepared for a significant drop in market value because the 'flood-damaged' label raises concerns about future breakdowns. Full transparency with buyers and accepting a lower price will save you headaches. In the long run, if your budget allows, replacing the car with a new one offers more peace of mind, sparing you the constant worry while driving.
From a cost-saving perspective, I decided to keep using my car after a major engine overhaul since the repair cost 10,000 yuan, which was much cheaper than buying a used replacement. However, potential costs must be considered: engines that have been waterlogged are more prone to rust or short circuits, potentially adding hundreds of yuan in annual maintenance. Resale value drops significantly as buyers are wary of high-risk vehicles, often forcing online listings at low prices that may still struggle to sell. Therefore, I chose to continue using it cautiously, avoiding long trips, and saving the money I would have spent on a replacement as a backup fund.
