What are the effects of water submersion on a vehicle?
2 Answers
Water submersion can have the following effects on a vehicle: Interior mold: Most car interiors are made of water-absorbent materials, and rainwater contains numerous impurities and bacteria. The enclosed nature of the vehicle's interior creates an environment conducive to mold growth. If interior components are not promptly cleaned and dried, fabric and leather surfaces may develop mold spots, which not only affect appearance but also produce unpleasant odors and increase bacterial contamination. Engine damage: Many people attempt to forcibly start their vehicles to drive them out of flooded areas without confirming whether the engine has taken in water. If the engine is already flooded, forcing it to start can cause severe connecting rod deformation. In such cases, insurance companies often deny claims. Transmission failure: If water levels rise above the engine compartment, the transmission is highly likely to take in water. Once the transmission is flooded, the vehicle may experience slipping, shaking, or jerky gear shifts, potentially shortening the transmission's lifespan or even rendering it irreparable.
Water damage to a car can have severe consequences. My old car was flooded once, resulting in hydro-locked engine that nearly led to total write-off—it barely ran again only after replacing new parts. The electrical system was even more troublesome: the ECU module short-circuited and burned out, causing lights and audio to fail completely, with repair costs exceeding tens of thousands. The soaked interior grew mold, carpets sprouted green fuzz, and the cabin reeked of sourness—driving became unbearable. Rusted chassis and brake components increased stopping distance, skyrocketing safety risks. Over time, full-body corrosion turned it into scrap metal, halving resale value—used car dealers slashed prices brutally. Remember to tow it to a professional shop immediately for drying and inspection, or minor issues escalate into costly disasters, making repair expenses heartbreakingly high.