What to Do When Your Car Gets Flooded

Floodwater can deal a lot of damage to your car, from its engine bay to your interiors. If your car has been immersed in floodwater, this can spell thousands of pesos in repair. But you can reduce the amount you have to shell out by following these six tips.

1. Don’t start the car – Water can short-circuit your electrical systems. Also, it might enter your engine and other critical components, damaging them further.

2. Unclamp the battery – Disconnecting the battery eliminates the possibility of short-circuit while ensuring you don’t get electrocuted as you check your car.

3. Open your windows – Roll down your windows to get rid of any dank smell. If the windows are electric, open the doors. Take out any removable mat, carpeting, and seat cover. Let the interior dry out.

4. Check the level of immersion – The water will leave a mark indicating how deep your car was flooded. If the water level reaches the top of your tires, don’t try to start it. Have the car towed instead.

5. Check your fluid reservoirs – Inspect the quality of the fluids in your brake, clutch, coolant, and power steering reservoirs. Are the fluids still viscous to the touch, or have they become watery? If it’s the latter, then water has seeped in.

6. Check the air filter – Your air filter is a good indication if water found its way into your engine. If the air filter is wet, then the engine needs to be flushed. Have your car towed to an automotive service center for this service.

If you cannot find any evidence of water in the fluid reservoirs and air filter, then you can reattach the battery clamps and attempt to start the car. Listen for any unusual noises from your engine, and when you hear them, turn off your car immediately. If not, then proceed to check your car’s electrical systems to see if they are still working.

To be safe, it would be wise to bring your car in for a thorough checkup, even if everything seems fine. Water may still be in the system, and even a little amount can wreak havoc on different components. Make sure to have the engine flushed and the fuel tank drained.