Will There Be Problems If a Car Is Submerged in Floodwater?
2 Answers
Floodwater submerging a car can indeed cause problems, and the specific impact depends on the level of submersion. Water level reaches the exhaust pipe: If the water only submerges the exhaust pipe, promptly moving the car away is sufficient. Submersion of the exhaust pipe does not cause water to be sucked back into the engine, and engine stalling is primarily due to water entering the engine's intake system, which is unrelated to the exhaust pipe being submerged. Water level reaches half the wheel height: If the water level just reaches half the wheel height, the car generally will not leak. However, if submerged for an extended period with aging sealing strips, water leakage may occur. Water level exceeds half the wheel height: If the water level exceeds half the wheel height, the engine may take in water, and the interior may also leak. Under no circumstances should the engine be started to avoid damage to the engine or electronic components inside the car.
I once experienced my car being flooded, and after the water receded, I immediately tried to start the engine, but it wouldn't budge. Later, the mechanic told me that water had entered the cylinders, causing hydrolock, which seized the internal engine components, resulting in nearly ten thousand yuan in repair costs. It wasn't just the engine; the entire electrical system short-circuited—the window controls failed, the dashboard displayed garbled codes, and the trunk was full of water stains and mold. Months later, rust started appearing under the car, and the seats grew moldy, emitting a foul odor, forcing me to replace the entire interior. My advice to anyone whose car is flooded: do not attempt to start it. Instead, contact a tow truck immediately and have it taken to a professional shop for inspection. Parking on higher ground or in a garage can prevent such issues; otherwise, the aftermath becomes much more troublesome and time-consuming.
