What are the impacts of a car being flooded?

[Morris]

When a car is flooded, it can cause the following adverse effects: 1. Damage to vulnerable parts: Circuits, electrical components, precision instruments, thermal and sound insulation materials, and oils are highly susceptible to damage. 2. Damage to valuable components, leading to expensive repairs: The engine, transmission, computer system, audio equipment, wiring, airbags, steering system, etc., may be damaged, and subsequent repairs are generally costly. 3. Electronic system malfunctions: Modern vehicles are typically composed of numerous electronic devices, which lack professional waterproofing, especially in urban SUVs where the electronic wiring is essentially the same as in ordinary sedans without any waterproof treatment. 4. Short circuits in electronic modules: After water exposure or flooding, the engine's related electronic modules are highly prone to short circuits. The vehicle's control computer, which acts like the brain of the car, is usually located in the engine compartment and is mostly given simple dust-proof treatment. When soaked by rainwater, the vehicle's central computer and wiring on the body are highly likely to short circuit. If these modules malfunction, it can range from a single function failure to severe vehicle damage or even a fire caused by the short circuit.

[MacCorbin]

I just went through a car flood, it was a nightmare! Water may have entered the engine, damaging the cylinders and causing them to rust completely, making repairs impossible; the electronic system short-circuited and overloaded, with the power windows working intermittently, which is especially annoying; the carpets and seats inside absorbed water and became moldy, emitting a foul odor and attracting bacteria; the brake lines may corrode and fail, doubling the driving risk; blown fuses are minor issues and can be fixed. It's recommended to tow the car to a professional shop for thorough cleaning, drying, and disinfection after flooding, and avoid starting the engine to prevent further damage. For long-term prevention, park on higher ground and check the sealing strips regularly.

[AdelynDella]

Water-damaged cars have too many hidden dangers. Don't start the engine immediately - first check electrical systems: blown headlight fuses are common, and loose connectors causing short circuits may silence the horn. Lift the carpet to inspect floor pan rust developing rapidly from standing water; waterlogged air filters easily clog and reduce power; contaminated transmission fluid loses lubrication (expensive repairs); mold growth in recirculating AC poses health risks. Don't let minor issues accumulate into major disasters. Regular maintenance with undercarriage anti-rust coating provides the most effective prevention.

[Eva]

After a car is submerged, repair costs skyrocket: replacing the electronic control unit can cost over ten thousand; a flooded engine is often beyond repair and requires a major overhaul; replacing seats and interior trim comes at a high cost. While insurance may cover some expenses, the severe depreciation leaves the car with little resale value. From a safety perspective, it's even worse: short circuits can lead to spontaneous combustion; a rusted chassis is prone to fractures, leading to disastrous accidents. It's crucial to send the car to a professional workshop for a comprehensive inspection, repair, and certification before reuse—otherwise, the risks are high, and the car may become unsellable. Often, doing the math reveals that replacing the car is more economical than repairing it.