What to do if a hybrid car gets flooded?
2 Answers
Push the car to a higher ground, remove all items from the cabin, then check the wiring and computer systems for any short circuits or burns. Call the insurance company and have the car towed to a repair shop to inspect the flooding damage.
That day I drove my hybrid car out, and suddenly there was a heavy rainstorm. The car got flooded in a low-lying area, and after being completely soaked, both the engine and battery compartments were filled with water. I immediately turned off all the power switches, afraid to start the engine to prevent a short circuit and fire. I called for a tow truck to take it to the repair shop. The mechanic said that water in the high-voltage battery is very dangerous, as it could cause electric shocks or damage the entire system. They had to disassemble it to dry and inspect the circuits and seals. Hybrid cars are more fragile than pure gasoline cars because the battery modules are buried underground, and corrosion happens quickly after water exposure, making the repair costs quite high. Usually, it's better to park on higher ground, and during the rainy season, pay attention to weather forecasts. This experience taught me a lesson—safety comes first, and you can't skimp on it.