Save Your Flooded Car: Steps to Take Now pen_spark

Flooding is becoming increasingly common, and unfortunately, your car can be a victim. This guide explores what flood damage does to a car, what to do if it happens to you, and even if you should consider buying a flood-damaged car.

How Does Flooding Damage a Car?

Floodwater can wreak havoc on almost every part of your car, including:

• Engine: Water in the cylinders can cause hydrolock, a serious engine failure.
• Interior: Seats, carpets, and trim can rot and mildew from prolonged exposure.
• Electrical System: Shorted circuits and fried wiring can render your car powerless.
• Brakes: Water contamination reduces braking efficiency and corrodes pipes.
• Other areas: Suspension, exhaust, and fuel systems can all be damaged by floodwater.

The severity depends on how long the car was submerged and if it was running. Deeper water exposure or a running engine usually means more extensive damage.

Is My Flooded Car a Total Loss?

Not always. Cars are categorized based on flood damage severity:

• Category A & B (Unrepairable): These cars are crushed due to extensive damage.
• Category C & D (Uneconomical to Repair): Repairs may be more expensive than the car's value.
• Category N (Non-Structural Damage): Repairable with no structural damage.
• Category S (Structural Damage): Repairable, but with structural damage (unlikely from flooding).

Contact your insurance company for an assessment. They will determine the category and next steps.

Can a Flooded Car Be Repaired?

Most cars can be repaired, but the cost depends on the damage. Replacing a few seals is cheaper than reviving a car submerged for a day.

Flood Damage and Insurance:

• Comprehensive insurance: Usually covers flood damage, but exceptions may apply (e.g., ignoring road closure signs).
• Third-party fire and theft: Unlikely to cover flood damage.

What to Do if Your Car is Flooded:

• Car submerged: Contact your insurance and arrange recovery. It's likely a write-off.
• Car in shallow water:
  • Open doors and hood to dry the interior.
  • Remove carpets.
  • Do not start the car (risk of hydrolock).
  • Check oil and fuse box for water contamination.
  • Only start the car if certain no water entered critical components. Otherwise, tow it.
  • File an insurance claim and get a professional assessment.
• Driving through flooded roads:
  • Try to maintain engine speed if possible.
  • Do not restart a stalled engine; get it towed.
  • Dry the car thoroughly once safe.
  • Only drive if certain no water entered the engine or electrical system.
  • File an insurance claim and have the car checked by a professional.

Should You Buy a Flood-Damaged Car?

Flood-damaged cars can be cheaper, but proceed with caution:

• Never buy Category A or B: They're illegal to repair.
• Avoid structurally damaged Category S cars (unlikely from flooding).
• Category C & D: More extensive damage likely compared to Category N.
• Always have a professional inspect the car before buying.
• Price should reflect the car's repaired status.

Flood-Damaged Car FAQs:

• Starting a flooded car? No! Risk of hydrolock and further damage.
• Saltwater vs. Freshwater flood damage? Saltwater is worse due to increased corrosion.
• Drying a flooded car? Open doors, hood, and trunk. Remove carpets and unblock drainage holes. For very deep water exposure, check the engine bay and air filter for water. Consider removing seats and door cards for faster drying.
• Repair costs? Variable, ranging from a few hundred pounds for minor damage to thousands for extensive electrical or engine damage