What is the difference between a waterlogged car and a flooded car?
2 Answers
The differences between a waterlogged car and a flooded car are as follows: Waterlogged car extent: The extent is relatively minor, generally where the water just reaches the wheel level, and the car's chassis is completely submerged in water. This level is referred to as a waterlogged car. For this type of vehicle, as long as the chassis is not submerged for an extended period, and the owner reports the incident to the insurance company immediately upon discovery, standard claim procedures can be followed. Flooded car extent: There are two levels of a flooded car. The first is when the water level reaches the car's headlights, which is considered a partial flood. If the water level continues to rise, exceeding the hood or even covering the roof, this is considered a full flood. Both levels of flooding are quite severe, and the claim process varies depending on the extent of water damage.
I often help friends inspect used cars and found that water-damaged cars differ significantly from flood-damaged cars. Water-damaged cars usually have partial water ingress, such as rainwater flooding the chassis or wheel hubs, mainly damaging mechanical parts like brakes and suspension. Rust may not be a big issue but requires repairs. Flood-damaged cars are far more severe—typically salvaged from floods, with water levels reaching the dashboard or even the roof, causing all electronic systems to short-circuit, interiors to mold, and engines to be ruined. When buying a car, never go for suspiciously cheap deals. Check insurance records for flood reports and personally test-drive to ensure acceleration and braking feel normal. Some used car dealers clean up flood-damaged cars and pass them off as regular vehicles, leading to endless headaches like sudden breakdowns or oil leaks that hurt your wallet.
