If your vehicle has been in
flood waters there are some checks to be
made to determine if there has been any
car damage done.
Where you can see evidence of the water having entered the passenger area i.e.
damp seating or wet carpet, do not start your car up. There is a possibility
that water has affected the electrical system. A short circuit could result in
airbags deploying and/or further damage to your vehicle.
Whether or not the water level has reached the car's interior, the brakes may
have been compromised. Get them tested. In any case your vehicle will need to
be checked out by a garage sooner rather than later.
Damp patches tend to smell if left to dry out naturally. Having your vehicle professionally
valeted is worth considering.
Water has most probably entered the engine if the engine oil and transmission
fluid looks watered down, milky or beige in colour. If this is the case do not
drive your car, as any damage already done can be compounded. A tow to the
mechanic is the only sensible option.
Similarly, if the air filter shows signs of dampness it will need to be
replaced, along with the oil.
Where water has got inside the headlight and taillight casings the bulbs will
need to be changed.
If you've been unlucky enough to have sustained
flood damage to your car
you will no doubt be interested in looking up your car insurance to see if you
are covered.
Flood damage to cars is generally covered under the most fully
comprehensive auto insurance policies. In the main, those with only
"third party, fire and theft" policies will not be covered.
