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What Happens to My Car if It Gets Submerged in a Flood?

What Happens to My Car if It Gets Submerged in a Flood?

We are fortunate if the water hasn't entered the interior of the cabin

A.P.

Miércoles, 30 de octubre 2024, 09:15

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The DANA currently affecting Spain is leaving many people affected, especially on the roads. Although we might initially think that once the water is cleared, our car might be in good condition to drive, we must be very cautious because the damage caused can be very severe.

Initially, we shouldn't worry too much if the water level has reached about halfway up the wheels. In this case, the car might start, but we may need to replace the catalytic converter. If the water hasn't entered the interior of the cabin, we are fortunate. Before attempting to start the engine, it is enough to dismantle the car's exhaust line to drain any water that may have entered it, and it is most likely that the car will start perfectly and function well, according to experts from Autocasión.

The first thing we should do is resist the temptation to try to start the engine. We can turn on the ignition to check if the windows and lights work, ensuring that the electrical system is more or less fine. If all the electrical components work, it is an excellent sign.

If water has entered through the engine's air intake and reached the cylinders, it can cause problems with a connecting rod. This failure is less likely in a gasoline engine than in a diesel because the ignition system usually fails first, causing the engine to stall without starting. If it has affected the car, we would need to change the ignition system and possibly the entire engine.

In any case, after a flood, it is advisable to thoroughly clean the car's undercarriage, as besides water, the vehicle will be affected by mud, which, once dry, can be very harmful to the mechanics if we try to move the car. This mud can be detrimental to the brakes, bearings, and transmission, and can unbalance the wheels.

If the water reaches a higher level, this mud can clog the radiator. If this happens, the engine could overheat. The solution is to clean the radiator from the outside. If water enters the car's interior, upholstery, trim, and control panels will need to be replaced, as well as all the insulators and fasteners that these elements have.

If the internal body drains are blocked, the water will rust the sheet metal, and the electrical connections may be affected, as they are designed to withstand some moisture but not to endure immersion. Even if these connections do not fail once dry, a layer of rust could form over time, leading to electronic problems.

If the water has exceeded half the height of the car, we should not attempt to start it. Mechanics might try to save the engine, which would require dismantling, drying, and removing the mud. In models over 10 years old, water can also enter the gearbox through the vents, so it will need to be dismantled and cleaned.

If the water has completely covered the car, the situation may be irreversible, as water and mud will have reached every small corner of it. If the vehicle has been completely submerged up to the roof, unless the water was absolutely clear (which is very unlikely as floods usually carry mud and sewage water) and we could start repairing it within a few hours, the chances of bringing the vehicle back to life are practically nil.

It would be necessary to completely dismantle it, dry it, and clean each piece, in addition to replacing others. The repair could cost more than a new vehicle.

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