What are the effects of a water-damaged car?
3 Answers
Corrosion of the chassis; reduced body tightness; musty odors and mold growth; decreased stability of the engine and transmission; increased risk of electrical fires, etc. Below is a detailed introduction: Water-damaged car: A water-damaged car refers to a vehicle that has been submerged in water, typically meaning the engine and transmission have been soaked, with the water level exceeding the wheels and body seats, and the bottom parts of the vehicle being in prolonged contact with water. Such vehicles pose significant risks, as the electrical circuits are prone to short circuits, fires, etc. Hazards: The dangers of water-damaged cars are substantial. If a vehicle is submerged in water, it can easily lead to rusting of body components, shortening its lifespan and reducing safety performance. For example, water damage can cause corrosion and rusting of the vehicle's wiring, leading to sudden engine shutdowns or spontaneous combustion due to short circuits while driving, with potentially catastrophic consequences. Additionally, the repair costs for water-damaged vehicles are very high, often exceeding 50% of the vehicle's value for severely water-damaged cars, and insurance claims can be very difficult to process.
Water-damaged cars have significant impacts, and I've seen many of them—safety-wise, they're the most dangerous. The electrical system is prone to short circuits, such as the headlight controller or AC panel failing, which can cause sudden engine shutdowns or even spontaneous combustion while driving. If brake fluid gets contaminated with water, the brakes become less responsive, making high-speed emergency stops downhill unreliable. Internal wiring corrosion leads to poor engine performance, resulting in weak uphill power and increased fuel consumption. Not to mention the mold growth under the carpets after flooding, leaving a stubborn musty odor that lingers even with prolonged window ventilation. It's advisable not to buy cheap used flood-damaged cars due to the high accident risks. Regularly checking drainage holes can help prevent such issues.
I have an old car that was once flooded, and the repairs were really expensive. Replacing the entire electrical wiring cost thousands, the seats were ruined and had to be replaced, and the carpet got moldy and smelly. What's worse, the car's value dropped significantly when selling it, with the appraisal price cut in half. The insurance claim was a nightmare, with slow evidence submission. Driving daily is also nerve-wracking, especially on rainy days when I worry about electrical issues recurring. My kid in the back seat even complained about an itchy nose, and later we found mold in the AC filter due to improper cleaning, causing allergies. My advice is to take a flooded car to a professional shop immediately to prevent bigger problems.
