Tips for Starting a Successful Business

What To Do With Your Flooded Car

10 February 2016 by Brianna Cole

A flooded car is a situation that must be handled immediately. You need to begin repairing the damage by getting as much liquid out of the car as possible. The longer it sits in the carpet and upholstery, the more damage it can cause. The first thing you must do is remove the battery cables so you won't get shocked by electrical current. Here are a few more suggestions to make the task a bit easier.

Assessment

Don't wait for the insurance adjuster to decide what to do with the damaged vehicle. You will have double trouble if the damages are from salt water. It is suggested to have the car totaled if the water is as high as the bottom of the doors or dashboard. The electrical system is a very complex unit, and will most likely be damaged beyond repair. However, the mechanical systems, as well as the interior, can be cleaned and dried.

The most vulnerable parts include the drive train and transmission, engine, as well as the brake, fuel, and power steering systems. It will take a trained professional to discover whether the water-logged vehicle can be safe even after all components are dry. You can dry out the car, but the musty odors may remain.

What to Do?

Most companies require special flood insurance coverage. The comprehensive coverage is not a required portion of the automobile insurance plans. If you live in an area prone to flooding, you should be sure to have the coverage on your policy.

It is essential to make notes of how high the water was on the car. If possible, take pictures of the actual flooding. It is advisable to have cars checked by its Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) as a precaution to see if it was sold as salvage. Simply stated, many of the cars from floods are totaled and resold by dealers that might have a poor reputation.

Additional Tips

• Never attempt to start a vehicle until a thorough inspection has been done.
• Promptly contact the insurance agent or company concerning the damages.
• Flush out and replace all oils and lubricants, fluids, and all gaskets and filters. Extended damage to the engine and its components can occur if they were exposed to water.
• Repack all bearings, especially rear-drive vehicles. Bearings are sealed in front-wheel-drive automobiles. Clean all brake parts to remove the water.
• Replace all insulation materials because they will be a place for mold and mildew to collect.

In many cases, you will discover the car is a total loss. It will all depend on how much water got into the system. Remember, it is best to have a professional inspect the vehicle. You would not know what parts can be salvaged, and which ones cannot. Contact an insurance agent, like NFP, P & C, Inc., for more help.

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