What problems can occur with the transmission of a flood-damaged car?
3 Answers
Once water enters the transmission, minor issues such as slipping, shaking, and rough shifting may occur, while severe cases may require transmission replacement. Below is an introduction to related issues concerning flood-damaged cars: Engine failure: Generally, if the engine compartment has been submerged, do not attempt to start the car, as it cannot be guaranteed whether the engine has taken in water. If water has entered, a secondary start could lead to connecting rod fractures in minor cases or complete engine failure in severe cases. Regardless of the scenario, the repair costs are extremely high, and the claims process may not go smoothly. Interior mold: The most challenging aspect of cleaning a flood-damaged car is the interior. Rainwater contains numerous impurities, and the soaked interior creates an extremely humid environment, making it highly susceptible to mold growth. If the vehicle is not dried promptly, mold can not only damage the fabric and leather materials inside the car but also produce various unpleasant odors.
My car was previously flooded, and the transmission has been problematic. When driving, the gear shifts are extremely jerky, feeling like the gears are fighting each other, and sometimes there's even a creaking noise. The mechanic told me that water got into the transmission, diluting the oil and preventing proper lubrication of the metal parts, leading to severe rust and corrosion on the gears. Over time, the clutch plates also wore out, and the entire transmission might even be ruined. For an automatic transmission like mine, the issues are even more noticeable—there’s shaking and overheating at high speeds, which scared me into sending it for repairs immediately. My experience tells me: after driving through water, don’t delay—get it checked and change the oil early to save money and stay safe. Otherwise, the repair costs can be shockingly high.
As someone who has repaired many flood-damaged vehicles, transmission issues are quite common. If water enters the transmission housing, the automatic transmission fluid will mix with water and deteriorate, affecting the hydraulic system's operation. Rust on gears and bearings accelerates, leading to abnormal slipping or noises during gear shifts. Manual transmissions fare slightly better, but if seals are compromised, water and debris can clog the valve body, potentially causing overheating failures. It's advisable to promptly visit a professional shop for drainage and cleaning after driving through water to prevent minor issues from escalating into major repairs, as internal corrosion is irreversible.
