Most people tend to avoid purchasing cars that have flood damage. The typical signs include a musty odor, loose upholstery, damp carpets, and rust underneath the doors and dashboard. However, can this type of vehicle be salvaged? Is flood damage car repairable? The answer is, it depends.
Assessing the Damage
While floods can be quite devastating, there are some instances in which the damages that it causes may not be as bad as you think. This is particularly the case for cars that have modern engines. Modern engines tend to be able to tolerate more so it's entirely possible that the engine may not have taken in any water.
Whether or not you can repair a modern car will depend on the actions that you take immediately after the flood. If you start the car before checking the damages, there's a good chance that you could cause it to hydro lock and completely ruin the engine. Specifically, it will cause damage to the connecting rod or piston. This happens as a result of water entering the combustion chamber because water can't be compressed.
So, what should you do before trying to start the car? Perform an inspection to find out the extent of the damage. If the water has receded, be on the lookout for a dirty water line. This way, you'll know to what level the water rose. If the water line seems to sit at the bottom of your doors, then there's a chance that your engine is in good condition. However, it's likely that the water reached the oil pan so you should allow it to dry before attempting to start the engine.
If the water line sits at the very top of your rim it's possible that the car will require more work. This means that you'll likely experience a few electrical issues. Not only that, but the water probably entered the engine or other critical components.
If you notice that the water line is sitting anywhere near the hood, then there are going to be big issues. This is particularly true if your car is an older model. It's likely taken water into every part of the vehicle. And this is the type of damage that's extremely difficult to repair.
Is flood damage car repairable? The level of the water will play a huge role in the extent of the damage. The higher it is, the more challenges you'll face.
Signs of Flood Damage
If you're unsure about car flood damage symptoms, then there are several key signs that you should be on the lookout for. For instance, flood-damaged cars have wet intakes and air filters. This typically means major damage.
If the car has water damage, you'll have a hard time getting the dipstick to stay in the tube. In fact, you may notice that the reading on the dipstick is off. It may tell you that the oil is actually above the full line. When searching for car flood damage symptoms, you should also check the oil. If it looks milky it means that there's water in your crankcase.
When considering car flood damage symptoms it's also a good idea to check the fluids in the vehicle. Is flood damage car repairable? It depends on things such as power steering, coolant, and fuel systems. Disconnect the fuel line and let the fluids drain into a pan. If you notice water, switch out the fuel filter.
One of the best ways to check for signs of flood damage car is to use an inspection camera. This way, you can find out if your combustion chamber contains standing water. Humidity is okay, but standing water isn't. Is flood damage car repairable? Sometimes, it's best to invest in the necessary tools to get the answers that you need.
Can flood damage to a car be repaired?
If you're wondering how to repair flood damage car mechanics will typically suggest that you be prepared to invest a significant amount of money. It can also take up a large chunk of your time because the repair is a big process. There's a lot of trial and error involved. As you drive the car, certain parts will signal that they need to be replaced. Is flood damage car repairable? Well, many owners report that their car never drove the same after flooding.
While in the best of cases, a vehicle can be repaired, there are also times in which this isn't possible. The most experienced mechanics often have a difficult time fixing cars that have water damage. Is flood damage car repairable if it's a modern vehicle? Well, even if your car is modern, there are still thousands of sensors, wires, and relays that must be sorted through. If the water was salt water, then it's likely to be totaled by your insurance company.
Junking a Flood-Damaged Car
If you currently own or have recently purchased a flood-damaged car, sometimes it's best to cut your losses and junk the car. This is especially true if the car is just taking up space on your property. Salvage yards are willing to purchase your car as is. There are several benefits other than extra cash.
First, it's much better for the environment. The longer your car sits in one spot, the greater the health concern. There's always a chance that hazardous chemicals could be seeping into the ground and making their way into our water supply. Not only does this threaten human life, but the entire ecosystem as well. The best part about selling the car to a junkyard is that they use it for metal.
An advantage of selling junk cars is that your property will look better. Car flood damege often leads to rust. If this is visible, then there's a good chance that it may be affecting your curb appeal and as a result, the value of your property. This is particularly the case if the car is sitting on your lawn. By selling the car, you prevent weeds as well as stop animals from taking refuge around the vehicle.
Another big advantage of selling your car to a salvage yard is that they'll tow it away for free. If you've ever had your car towed, then you know that it can be a large expense. But you won't have to worry about this with a salvage company. They employ drivers that are insured, licensed, and bonded. If you're dealing with car flood damage, let someone else cover the expense.
Perhaps the biggest advantage of getting rid of a car that has flood damage is that you'll save a lot of money in the long run. Even if your car isn't operational, New York requires you to make sure that its registration is always up-to-date. These fees can definitely add up over the course of time.
The Takeaway
So, is flood damage car repairable? It really depends on the extent of the damage. If you're dealing with car flood damage you need to consider how high the water has risen. The higher the crest, the more expensive the problem. And if you're wondering how to repair flood damage car mechanics will likely tell you that it's going to take a huge investment. That is, if the car ever runs the same again. Luckily, if you're dealing with car flood damage and want cash for junk cars New York offers several companies that you can choose from.
