Flood damages can greatly impact the function and value of your car as water is a severe threat to the interior, exterior, and engine of the vehicle. In many cases, the damage is permanent, and you can lose your car.
However, there are methods to preserve your car and minimize the amount of damage.
Read on to learn about 7 ways you can protect your car:
Never try to start your rain flooded car
The first and foremost tip is never to start your car in water because it may damage the engine permanently. The water, especially if it is salty or muddy, will knock up your engine, which will cause hydro lock. If hydro lock occurs, you’re looking at huge repair bills or the prospect of getting a new car. The best option is to get your car towed to the mechanic.
Always remove the car battery
If you are stranded in water with your car, remove your car’s battery while checking the other components of your vehicle. This will prevent you from electric shocks.
Check electrical systems
If your car’s engine is fine and looks good to start, then check the electric components of your car one-by-one. Check your headlights, indicators, interior lights, transmission, AC, and infotainment system. If you feel that even one of them is not working correctly, take it to the mechanic.
Check the interior of rain flooded car
First check the water level, as it usually leaves a mark along the exterior. If the level remained below the doors, then your interior is most probably safe, but if the water level is higher than it could be a problem for you and your vehicle.
Start the drying process quickly
If water has seeped into your car do not wait for the mechanic and car to reach a workshop; start the drying process quickly with dry towels. Roll down the windows or doors (if the water level is low), as it will help reduce the smell inside the car due to dirty water rain. Alternatively, you can also use a vacuum or turn on a fan for this purpose.
Check the oil and filters of rain flooded car
Remove your dipstick, clean it, and check the oil. If it has water droplets, do not start the car. Furthermore, check the air and oil filters, whether they have water in them; if yes, get it towed to the mechanic, get it clean, and then start it.
Check for debris around the tires
Before moving your car make sure there is no debris and mud around the tyres and underbelly of the car otherwise the residue can cause severe long lasting damages to your tyres.
Conclusion
Problems may continue to rise for months, even years after the vehicle has escaped the flooding. Though, if you take good care and follow the tips mentioned in this guide, you will minimize the damage to a great extent.
