Help With Car Water Damage

Flooding is one of the most common natural disasters that we have. It can affect our homes, businesses and cars. Car water damage can be extremely stressful. Your car is a huge investment and this is a big problem.

Whether you have a car that has been infiltrated or are concerned about purchasing water damaged cars, there are many different things that you should consider.

If you have car water damage in your car, you will need to tend to it quickly for best results. If your car is involved in a flood, it may very likely have been submerged. This can affect, not only the cosmetics of your vehicle, but the electronic system, as well.

Even if your car hasn’t been submerged there could still be significant damage. If you drive through a flooded area or there is a way for water to enter the engine, this could also cause serious problems. Any large dents in the hood could also be an area for it to enter.

If you have been involved in a flood, first check all of your fluids. If they are an off color, have your vehicle towed to an auto mechanic. Don’t drive it! You may cause permanent problems. They will empty the fluids and replace them properly for you.

If you have a newer car, the electrical system may also be involved. If you are in doubt… the dash lights on, running rough etc, tow it to a mechanic. They may need to replace the components.

Your brakes could also be involved. Have them inspected to make sure that they will perform properly. It is possible you may also need to replace them.

If the interior is involved, you will need to clean it well. You can use a wet vac to vacuum most of the water out. If it is soaked, you may find you need to redo the interior due to mold. It is too difficult to dry out the inner seats and many insurance companies will total a car that has interior water damage.

You will need to also check all of the lubricated joints. Most cars are now lubricated at the factory for life, but with flooding, they may have been compromised and will need to be re-lubricated.

If you are purchasing a used car, some states require owners to let the DMV know if it has been involved in a flood. You can also research the VIN number on your own to be sure there hasn’t been any car water damage.