What are the subsequent issues after repairing a flood-damaged vehicle?

[MacHayden]

After repairing a flood-damaged vehicle, the following issues may arise: 1. Safety hazards: If a vehicle is submerged in water, it is highly prone 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 shutdown or spontaneous combustion due to short circuits while driving, with potentially dire consequences. 2. Lifespan: Check whether the protective coating on the bottom of the vehicle body is damaged. Replace the fuel filter and spark plugs. Inspect the multi-ribbed belt and replace it if necessary. Check if the engine timing belt is cracked or damaged and replace it if needed. Ensure the engine oil pan bolts are not loose and tighten them to the specified torque if necessary. Inspect the brake hoses for aging or damage, check the brake hard lines for damage or corrosion, and ensure there are no leaks at any connection points.

[ColtonFitz]

Flood-damaged cars can have many lingering issues after repairs. My car was once submerged in floodwater, and after months of repairs, I thought it was fine. But while driving, the AC always had a musty smell, like a moldy carpet—friends would cover their noses when riding. The infotainment screen would freeze occasionally, and the navigation would suddenly disappear, forcing me to pull over and restart. The mechanic said the wiring was corroded, especially the headlight and window control modules, which were the most vulnerable. Even worse, the engine sometimes had a jerking sensation, as if it could stall at any moment. The car's value plummeted, with the used market slashing its price by half. These kinds of cars are a constant headache—regular inspections are recommended, but a permanent fix is unlikely. Honestly, it’s better to replace it with a new car sooner rather than later for peace of mind.

[OKate]

The experience of repairing a flood-damaged car made me deeply realize that internal corrosion is the biggest enemy. When wire connectors rust, resistance increases, leading to short circuits and blown fuses, causing sudden failures of headlights or wipers. Water ingress in the ECU module causes instability, leading to unexplained engine stalls, especially in high humidity. The braking system is at high risk of rust, making the pedal feel soft. Even if the surface issues are fixed, hidden dangers remain and can lead to concentrated problems after three to five years. I've seen fellow car owners repeatedly spend money on fixes, but it's better to address everything at once. Regular maintenance includes cleaning the engine bay, but corrosion spreads quickly and is hard to eliminate completely. Insurance may also not cover subsequent failures.

[ElizabethDella]

The subsequent risks after flood-damaged car repairs are extremely high. Safety-wise, waterlogged airbag sensors may fail and not deploy in accidents. The ABS anti-lock braking system could be compromised, leading to longer skidding distances during emergency braking. The vehicle's frame may corrode and weaken, making it prone to deformation even in minor collisions. Not to mention electronic failures like sudden loss of power steering, which is highly dangerous. As someone who prioritizes safety, I strongly advise against using such vehicles for highway driving or family trips. While regular brake and suspension checks help, hidden dangers remain. From a health perspective, musty odors promote mold growth, affecting respiratory health. Thorough inspection or scrapping is recommended.