What Problems Can Occur with Water-Damaged Vehicles?
2 Answers
Problems that can occur with water-damaged vehicles include: 1. Difficult-to-clean areas such as the inner door panels, air conditioning ducts, crankcase, and differential structural cavities are prone to mold and rust; 2. The lubricating grease in the wheel bearings and half-shafts can degrade after being soaked in water; 3. Some sand and gravel cannot be completely removed and may remain in gears or belts, leading to premature wear and initial abnormal noises; 4. Corrosion and rusting of the vehicle's wiring can cause sudden stalling or spontaneous combustion due to short circuits while driving. Water-damaged vehicles are classified into three levels based on the extent of water exposure: if the water level exceeds the vehicle's chassis, it is considered a water-immersed vehicle; if the water level exceeds the oil dipstick, it is termed a partially submerged vehicle; and if the water level exceeds the hood or dashboard, it is classified as a fully submerged vehicle.
Flood-damaged cars are a huge headache. I've handled many such cases for car owners. Engine water ingress is the most common issue - if floodwaters submerge the intake pipe, water can directly enter the cylinders causing hydrostatic lock and complete engine failure. Electrical systems are prone to short circuits, with sensors and control units rusting after immersion, leading to ABS and airbag malfunctions. Waterlogged interiors breed mold and bacteria, with seats and carpets developing odors that pose long-term health risks, especially for sensitive individuals like children. Chassis metal components rust and corrode, weakening the vehicle structure within years and causing instability at high speeds. Repairs are costly - replacing an ECU alone costs over 10,000 yuan, with overall value depreciation exceeding 50%. My advice: immediately tow the flooded vehicle to a professional shop for inspection, and never attempt to start the engine.
