If your car has been flooded, don’t panic! It may seem like an irreparable disaster, but there are plenty of things you can do to fix the problem (or at least limit the damage). Here’s how to deal with a car that has been flooded.
Let Your Car Dry as Soon as Possible
If your car has been flooded, getting it dried out as soon as possible is essential. Water can cause many problems, from metal rusting to damaging electronics. Allow your car to dry outdoors or in a well-ventilated space with all doors, the hood, and the trunk opened. The quicker your car can dry out, the better your chance of limiting damage.
Take it to Get Inspected
If you have comprehensive insurance, your policy may cover the cost of an inspection. If you don’t have comprehensive insurance or your policy doesn’t cover inspections, you can expect to pay a few hundred dollars for one. An inspection will tell you if the car is totaled or if your mechanic can repair it. Please do not attempt to drive your vehicle at this point; instead, have it towed to your mechanic’s shop.
Change your Oil
The next thing you should do is have your car’s oil changed. This will help eliminate any water that may have gotten into the engine. Your mechanic should also check the air filter and spark plugs to ensure they’re not damaged and change them if they show any signs of water damage. Finally, if your car has been in salt water, it’s essential to rinse off the undercarriage as soon as possible to prevent rusting.
Flush the Coolant and Brake Fluid
It would be best if you also had your mechanic flush the vehicle’s coolant and brake fluid. If your car has been flooded, there’s a good chance that water has contaminated your car’s fluids. You should also ask your technician to check for hose leaks or radiator leaks. If you find any, replace them as soon as possible.
Change all the Filters
Every car has an air filter, fuel filter, and oil filter. Depending on your vehicle’s make, you may also have a cabin air filter. These filters keep your car running smoothly by trapping dirt, dust, and other debris before they can enter and clog up your engine. If your vehicle has been flooded, it’s essential to change all these filters as soon as possible. Also, clean our car’s upholstery, or have flooded items replaced.
Change your Spark Plugs
Finally, get the spark plugs, wires, or ignition coils changed if you’re dealing with a flooded car. Exposure to water will damage these components.
If your car has been in a flood, it’s essential to get it dried out and get it to your mechanic for an inspection. Depending on the severity of the damage, your car may be a total loss. However, this is not always the case, and you may be able to get your car back up and running.