What Are the Hazards of Flood-Damaged Cars to the Engine?
3 Answers
The impact on the engine includes deformation of the engine connecting rod, leading to shortened piston strokes and insufficient compression of gases. Below is relevant information: 1. Flood-Damaged Cars: These are vehicles that have been submerged in water, typically referring to those where the engine and transmission have been soaked, with water levels exceeding the wheels and seats, and the underbody components being in prolonged contact with water. Such vehicles pose significant risks, as their electrical systems are prone to short circuits and fires. 2. Classification: Water levels above the chassis indicate immersion; levels above the oil dipstick indicate partial submersion; levels above the hood and dashboard indicate complete submersion.
I remember last year during the rainy season, my old car got flooded, and the engine developed major issues later. Water-damaged vehicles can cause severe harm to the engine. If water enters the engine compartment, it corrodes metal components like pistons and valves, leading to rust that causes clunking noises during startup—or worse, complete failure to start. Over time, the lubrication system’s oil mixes with water and deteriorates, increasing friction and potentially causing the engine to smoke or even seize. Electrical components also short-circuit, and repairing precision parts like ignition coils can be extremely costly. I spent nearly 10,000 yuan just to barely fix mine, and fuel efficiency dropped afterward. My advice: avoid driving through deep water, and if your car gets flooded, tow it to a repair shop immediately for a thorough cleaning. Prevention is always cheaper than repairs.
As someone who has worked in auto repair, I can tell you that flood-damaged car engines suffer tremendously. When water floods into the engine, metal components rust and corrode rapidly. The crankshaft and bearings wear out, and pistons may bend or deform. Particularly if water enters during operation, hydro-lock can occur, completely jamming components. If the electronic control unit short-circuits, the entire engine management system malfunctions, causing unstable idling or stalling. When oil and coolant mix, both the cooling and lubrication systems are ruined. Repairs are labor-intensive, requiring complete engine disassembly for deep cleaning or part replacements. The safety risks are significant—I've seen accident vehicles stranded on roads due to flood damage. Promptly using professional tools to drain water and check oil levels can be lifesaving; delaying repairs often doubles the costs.
