What Happens When a Stationary Car Gets Flooded?

[LeKinsley]

When a stationary car gets flooded, it can cause the following damages: Pungent Odor Inside the Car: A water-damaged car will have a musty and foul smell, which is very difficult to eliminate completely. Rusting of Interior Brackets: There are many exposed metal brackets beneath the dashboard. Since these brackets are not easily exposed to moisture, manufacturers typically do not apply anti-rust treatment to them. When water enters the car and evaporates, it causes these brackets to rust. Hardening of Seats: For cars where the water level reached the seats, even after cleaning and drying, the seats will feel stiff, more like sitting on thick cardboard rather than foam. Pressing them by hand will also reveal a lack of elasticity. Rusting of Wheel Bearings: If the car is submerged in water for a long time, water molecules can penetrate the bearings, causing the grease to deteriorate and leading to rust. This results in noticeable abnormal noises when the wheels rotate.

[Daniel]

Speaking of flood-damaged cars, it's really a bitter experience. I had an old car parked in the basement that got flooded during a disaster. After the water receded, it wouldn't start. Inspection revealed all circuits were shorted, and the electronic control unit was ruined; worse yet, water had entered the engine causing severe rust, and it broke down after just two drives. The soaked interior grew mold, emitting a foul odor, and the mold removal treatment cost over ten thousand. In the end, the repair costs exceeded expectations, and I had to sell it. If you encounter a similar situation, don't rush to drive the car—water might still be in the system, causing more damage. Have it towed to a professional shop for evaluation; if an older vehicle isn't worth repairing, scrapping it saves money. Always park on higher ground and prepare rain covers during the rainy season.

[DiElizabeth]

Parking a car in floodwater is anxiety-inducing. My car is less than a year old, and during recent heavy rain, it was parked in a low-lying area where water rose up to the windows. Online research suggests that if the water level exceeds the center of the wheel hub, it could damage the electrical systems, such as causing control module failures. Attempting to start the engine resulted in no response, and a friend advised against tampering to avoid the risk of battery short circuits. Worried about insurance claims—how to prove flood damage? I took a video, but the car is already submerged and I'm afraid to touch it. Repairs are likely expensive, with electrical circuit replacements starting at thousands, and interior cleaning and mold prevention adding another financial burden. With a new loan still unpaid, this situation is adding insult to injury. Advice: After flooding, turn off the power, tow the car away for inspection as soon as possible, and don’t leave hidden dangers that could affect safe driving.

[LeAvery]

Years of car repair experience often encounter waterlogged vehicles. The risks are significant after static flooding. Water seeping into electrical systems causes short circuits, airbag malfunctions, dangerous wiring corrosion, and time-consuming, costly repairs. Engine water ingress often leads to post-repair issues. Avoid starting a car submerged in deep water; tow it to a shop for drying and inspection. Whether it's worth repairing depends on the car's condition. Older cars may be better off scrapped for peace of mind. Prevent parking in low-lying areas and prepare waterproof covers during the rainy season.