Car flooding can cause serious damage to your vehicle, so it’s important to take steps to protect it.

1. Understand the Risks

Flooding can damage the engine, transmission, electrical systems, and interior. Even a few inches of water can be problematic, especially if it reaches critical components like the air intake or electrical wiring.

2. Know How to Spot Flood Damage

Damp interior: Smell for musty odors or look for mold and mildew growth.

Rust: Look for rust in unusual places, like door hinges or under the dashboard.

Mud or debris: Sometimes, floodwater carries mud or other debris into the car.

Water marks: Check for water lines in places like the footwell or trunk.

3. Before a Flood:

Park in elevated grounds: You will find places to park your car, especially in the lower lying regions prone to floods.

You may use flood barriers: Extreme precautionary measure could be setting up flood barriers around your car

Fit waterproof covers: If there is no chance to avoid such flooding, just try to minimize the destruction caused by getting a waterproof car cover.

 4. Flood Conditions

Avoid driving through flooded areas: Even if it doesn’t seem deep, water can quickly rise and damage your vehicle.

Move your car: If you can do so safely, move your car to higher ground as soon as possible.

5. After a Flood:

Check for water: Inspect for water in the cabin, trunk, or engine bay. If you find it, have the car professionally cleaned and dried as soon as possible.

Check the oil: If water has accumulated inside the engine, the oil will look milky. This is an indication that the engine has been compromised and needs to be checked by a car mechanic.

Electrical systems: Be cautious not to start the car since water may have destroyed some electrical parts.

Do not take it out for a drive until inspected: Damages from a flooded car may go deep into other components that are vital, which may be too expensive to be repaired.

6. Insurance Factors

Comprehensive coverage: Generally, flooding damage is covered by comprehensive auto insurance. Check with your insurance company to know how you are covered and what steps you need to take to file a claim.

Document the damage: If your car is flooded, take pictures and document everything for insurance purposes.