Whether your car’s been flooded car due to nonstop heavy rains or a leak due to problems with one of the door seals or an open window, water damage can lead to extreme deterioration of a car. If your car’s been damaged in flood and you’re unsure how to deal with it, this guide from Onyx Sell My Car in Brisbane is for you.
There’s nothing worse than thinking your car is in the garage free from harm, only to find out your floorboards are flooded and there’s water over the console. Here are some things you can do if that nightmare situation happens to you.
How to Deal with A Flood Damaged Car?
Do Not Attempt to Start the Car
The worst thing you can do to a flooded car is to start it, and you do not want muddy water to get into the engine, transmission, or fuel system and make the problem worse. If you require to move the vehicle to a different location, your only option is to have it towed.
Whatever you do, do not attempt to start your car until the water damage has been resolved and you’re 100% sure that the critical systems have been drained of water, & the mechanic gives you the go-ahead to begin the vehicle.
Remove as Much of The Water from the Car as Possible
The longer your car’s left in the water, the more significant damage caused. Your priority should be to get rid of the water as quickly & efficiently as possible. Hire a wet and dry vacuum cleaner to suck out the water. Caution: Do not use a standard vacuum cleaner as there’s a danger of getting an electric shock. Unlike standard cleaners, wet and dry vacuum cleaners are made specifically for damp conditions.
Hire A Suitable Mechanic to Consider the Extent of Damage
It’s a bright idea to hire a highly experienced mechanic to look at your car and give you the rundown of the damage. The mechanic will also be able to provide you with a quote for the repairs to be made, and you can then decide if it’s even worth going to the trouble to fix the car.
If you find that the cost of repairs is too high or too cumbersome, you always have the option to get cash for your flooded car with Onyx Sell My Car In Brisbane. We will come to your location, pick up & tow away the vehicle for free. We’ll put the cash to buy your car in your hands before we take it away.
Read More: Why a Vehicle Record Detail a is Essential
1. Check the Spare Tire
The first thing you should do is check your spare tire. If you don’t have a spare tire, now would be a good time to buy one! Your spare tire will be located in the trunk of your car. Once you find it, take a look at the tire’s condition. If it looks worn or damaged, it’s best to replace it before using it.
If the spare tire is in good condition, go ahead and put it on your car. Once you have the spare tire on, you can start thinking about getting your car out of the water. If you can’t get your car out of the water on your own, you may need to call a tow truck. Depending on the water depth, you may also need to have your car towed to a nearby mechanical shop for further repairs.
2. Assess the Situation
After a storm or heavy rains, the first thing you should do is assess the situation. Is the water still rising? How deep is the water? Is the car currently submerged? If the water is still rising and the car is submerged, it’s best to call a tow truck and have the vehicle towed to a safe location.
If the water has receded, but the car has been sitting in water for some time, there’s a chance that water has gotten into the engine. In this case, it’s best to have the car towed to a mechanic to have them look at it.
If the car was only lightly submerged or was only in the water for a short period, there’s a chance that it may just need to be cleaned. In this case, you can try washing the car with soap and water and then drying it off with a towel.
3. Break into your Car If Necessary
If your car has been flooded, it’s essential to act fast and take the necessary steps to protect your vehicle. If the water is still rising, you may need to break into your car to escape. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Locate the safest way to break into your car. If the water is still rising, you may need to break a window to escape. Try to avoid damaging the windshield if possible.
2. Once inside the car, close all the windows and doors to prevent more water from coming in.
3. Move any valuables or essential items to a higher location in the car, which will help protect them from damage.
4. If possible, start the engine and turn on the headlights, and this will help attract attention so that it can rescue you.
5. Get out of the car as soon as possible and move to higher ground. Do not try to drive through floodwaters!
4. Remove Valuables from the Trunk of the Car
If your car has been flooded, there are a few things you should do as soon as possible. First, remove all food and valuables from your car’s trunk, which will help prevent mold and mildew from forming. Next, open all the doors and windows to allow the car to air out. If possible, place a fan in the front and back of the vehicle to help circulate air.
Once the car is dry, you can begin cleaning it. Start by vacuuming all the carpets and upholstery. If there is any mold or mildew present, you will need to use a disinfectant to clean those areas. Finally, wash all the car’s exterior surfaces with soap and water. Once the vehicle is completely dry, you can apply a coat of wax to protect it from future flooding.
Read Also: A Reliable Place in Brisbane to Top Cash for Scrap Cars
5. How to Drain a Wet Car
If you find yourself with a wet car, there are a few things you can do to try and salvage it:
- You’ll want to open all doors and windows to allow the water to start draining out.
- You’ll want to remove any floor mats or other items that may be blocking the drains.
- You’ll want to start the engine and let it run for a while to help dry out the interior.
If your car has been sitting in water for an extended period, it may have damaged the engine. In this case, you’ll want to take it to a mechanic to have them take a look at it.
It’s also important to remember that even if your car looks fine on the outside, there could be hidden damage that can only be seen by a professional. If you’re not sure whether or not your car is safe to drive, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and take it to a mechanic to get it checked out.
6. Why Your Car Flooded
Heavy rains and storms can often lead to flash flooding, quickly submerging your car in the water. If this happens to you, it’s essential to know what to do next. First, don’t try to start your car, and this could damage the engine and electrical system. Next, call a tow truck or your insurance company. You’ll likely need a tow truck to get your car out if the water is deep. If your vehicle is covered by insurance, they may be able to help with the cost of a tow truck and repairs.
Once your car is out of the water, please take it to a mechanic as soon as possible. Flooded vehicles often have damaged engines and other parts that need to be repaired or replaced. If you take these steps after your car has flooded, you should be able to get it back on the road soon.
7. What You Should Do After You Stop The Leak
After you have successfully stopped the leak, it is time to start thinking about what you need to do next. The first thing you should do is call your insurance company and let them know what has happened. They will likely have a team of people to help you assess the damage and start the claims process.
The next thing you need to do is take pictures of the damage. This will be helpful for your insurance claim. Make sure to take photos of both the inside and outside of the car.
Once you have taken care of the paperwork with your insurance company, you need to consider getting your car repaired. If the damage is extensive, you may need to go through a professional repair shop. However, if the damage is not too bad, you may be able to fix it yourself.
No matter what route you choose, make sure that you get your car fixed as soon as possible. Driving around with a leaking vehicle is dangerous, but it can also cause further damage to your vehicle.
