What Happens When a Car is Flooded?
2 Answers
When a car is flooded, several issues may arise, including engine rust and cylinder seizure; water entering the transmission vent and mixing with transmission fluid, leading to insufficient lubrication and increased mechanical wear, necessitating a major transmission overhaul; water intrusion into the interior, carpets, etc., which, if not promptly addressed, can cause mold, odor, deformation, and damage; and damage to electrical components such as sensors and control units due to water-induced short circuits. Water entering the vehicle's wiring can lead to rust and corrosion over time, rendering it inoperable. Classification of Flooded Vehicles: Level 1: Water reaches the vehicle's chassis. Level 2: Water reaches halfway up the wheels, and the interior begins to take in water. Level 3: Water submerges the tires, and the seat cushions and center console inside the vehicle are also submerged. Level 4: Water enters the engine intake pipe, and the dashboard is about to be submerged. Level 5: The engine compartment is completely submerged. Level 6: The entire vehicle is completely submerged. Steps to Take When a Vehicle is Flooded: If the vehicle is still running, turn it off immediately. Disconnect the vehicle's battery by removing the negative terminal. Take photos of the flooded vehicle for insurance claims. Contact the insurance company and request a tow truck for rescue.
As a veteran driver with 30 years of experience, I've seen many cases of waterlogged vehicles. After a car is submerged, the engine is most susceptible to water ingress. Once water enters the cylinders, it can cause hydro-lock, potentially leading to immediate engine failure. The electrical system is another major casualty—soaked wiring can easily short-circuit, often causing malfunctions in electronic components like the air conditioning and audio systems. If the interior, such as seats and carpets, isn’t dried quickly, it can foster mold growth and unpleasant odors, damaging the cabin air quality. Rust on the chassis worsens over time, potentially compromising structural safety and posing driving risks. Repair costs are steep—a friend of mine spent nearly 10,000 yuan, not to mention the delays in insurance claims. My advice: avoid parking in low-lying areas before floods, and if submerged, never attempt to start the engine—tow it to a professional shop immediately. This can minimize long-term risks and financial losses.
