Will the insurance company pay for water damage to the steering gear?
2 Answers
If the vehicle owner does not forcibly start the engine after being submerged in water, thereby avoiding damage, the insurance company is required to compensate. Below is an introduction to vehicle water wading: Vehicle water wading insurance: According to insurance clauses, water wading insurance mainly applies in two scenarios: when the vehicle is submerged up to the exhaust pipe or intake pipe during heavy rain or floods, and the driver continues or attempts to start the vehicle using inertia; or when the vehicle is started without necessary treatment after being exposed to heavy rain or floods. In these two cases, water wading insurance can provide compensation for the resulting damage. Precautions after water wading: Immediately remove any explosive materials from the electrical components, dry the wet parts, and reinstall the fan belt. Check all gearboxes for water ingress, ensure there are no obstructions between the radiator fins of the water tank, inspect the tires for damage, and remove any water weeds entangled under the chassis. Clean the vehicle promptly to restore braking effectiveness.
I remember last time after the rain, the steering suddenly became heavy while driving, and I was worried that water had entered the steering gear. I quickly asked a friend if the insurance company would cover this. Generally speaking, whether it's covered depends on your insurance type and the cause of the water ingress: If it's due to flooding or accidentally driving into deep water, comprehensive insurance usually covers the repair costs, but you'll need to provide evidence proving it was an accidental event; If it's caused by slow water ingress due to inadequate daily maintenance, insurance typically won't cover it. I recommend going to a repair shop immediately to assess the extent of the damage—don't attempt to fix major issues yourself. At the same time, review your policy details and contact your insurance company for clarification. They will evaluate based on the accident report and photos. Prevention is crucial—avoid driving through deep puddles on rainy days to reduce the risk.
