What is the difference between a flooded car and a water-damaged car?
2 Answers
Here are the differences between a flooded car and a water-damaged car: 1. Different concepts: (1) A flooded car refers to a vehicle that has been submerged in water, generally meaning the engine and transmission have been soaked, with the water depth exceeding the wheels and vehicle seats, and the bottom components of the vehicle being in prolonged contact with water. Such vehicles pose significant risks, as the electrical circuits are prone to short circuits and fires. (2) A "water-damaged car" refers to vehicles that, due to heavy rain, were parked in underground garages or low-lying areas and could not be moved by the owners in time, resulting in prolonged soaking by accumulated water. 2. Different levels of water ingress: (1) A flooded car refers to a vehicle directly submerged in water, with the water depth exceeding one-third of the wheel height. In reality, both wading and flooding affect the vehicle, with the extent of the impact depending on the water depth. (2) A water-damaged car has been soaked for a long time, with a higher level of water ingress than a flooded car.
Speaking of water-damaged cars and flood-damaged cars, I've seen quite a few in my twenty years of driving. Water-damaged cars usually refer to those where the water level just reached the tire position or the chassis was submerged. These cars can barely run after repairs but always have minor issues. Flood-damaged cars are even more severe, with the cabin completely flooded and the entire dashboard needing replacement. Even after repairs, you wouldn't dare take them on the highway. I remember once helping someone inspect a used car and finding that the airbags, which had been rendered useless by water damage, were still being used—it was downright dangerous. Nowadays, some dealers play with terminology to deceive people. When buying a used car, always check the insurance records. No matter how cheap a water-damaged car is, it's better to stay away.
