What Level of Water Exposure Qualifies as a Flooded Car?
4 Answers
There is no clear-cut definition for a flooded car, but generally, during assessments, flooded cars are categorized into two levels. The first is when the water level reaches the height of the car's headlights, which is considered a partial flood. If the water level continues to rise, surpassing the hood and even covering the roof, it is classified as a total flood. Below is more information about flooded cars: 1. Hazards of Flooded Cars: Flooded cars can be repaired to some extent, but even after repairs, they pose significant hidden dangers. Such vehicles have a high risk factor, with electrical circuits prone to short circuits and fires. 2. Handling of Flooded Cars: Due to the presence of sand and gravel that cannot be completely cleaned out, remaining in gears or belts, certain components are more susceptible to damage, and initial operation may produce unusual noises. Typically, repairing a water-damaged vehicle involves first removing the seats, interior trim, and panels, draining the water, and then cleaning out the mud. The engine must also be dismantled to inspect electronic components, especially checking whether the computer motherboard is damaged.
Last time I watched the workshop mechanic inspecting a flood-damaged car, I learned that water above the chassis already counts as flood damage. If you find water level reaching half of the wheels, the exhaust pipe must have taken in water - never start the engine in this situation. When the cabin carpets are completely soaked, especially if there's rust on seat mounting bolts, you can basically confirm it's a flood-damaged vehicle. The worst is when water enters AC ducts - that moldy smell won't fade for two years. My advice is to avoid deep water when driving during rainy season. If caught in rising water, immediately turn off the engine and push the car to avoid engine seizure, which could cost tens of thousands to repair.
We used car dealers mainly check three places for flood-damaged vehicles. If the steering column is rusted to the color of a rusty nail, it's almost certainly a flood car. If you crawl under and find sand and mud stuck in the seat rail gaps, that's another red flag. Nowadays, sophisticated flood car repairs even replace the ECU, but if you lift the trunk mat and see water marks in the spare tire well that can't be wiped off, that's a dead giveaway. Last month during an inspection, I found seatbelts that were stiff when pulled halfway out - the electrical systems in such cars will inevitably fail sooner or later. Pay close attention to these details when buying used cars, or the repair costs might make you faint from crying.
Auto repair shop Master Liu told me that water-damaged cars are classified into three levels. Water on the floor is considered minor flooding, and the car can still be driven after drying; water reaching below the dashboard is moderate flooding, requiring disassembly and cleaning of the computer modules; the worst is when the entire car is submerged, with wiring soaked like pickles. Last time a flood-damaged car was brought in, mushrooms were growing from the AC vents. Experienced mechanics know that electronic brake modules will fail within six months after being waterlogged, and replacing a set costs half a month's wages.
