How to restore your car damaged in floods
What's the story
The aftermath of a flood can be devastating, especially when it involves damage to personal property like cars. However, with the right approach and care, it's possible to restore a flooded vehicle back to its original condition. The first and most crucial step in this process is not starting the engine of the waterlogged car. This precautionary measure is necessary to prevent severe internal damage, particularly if water has entered the engine or electrical systems.
Drying process
Ventilation and drying
After ensuring that the engine is not started, the next step is to open all doors and windows of the car for proper ventilation. This allows excess water to drain out and helps dry the vehicle faster. Using a portable fan can expedite this process. It's crucial not to switch on any electrical components such as lights, radio, or power windows during this time, to avoid further damage.
Battery disconnection
Disconnecting the battery
Another critical step in restoring a flooded car is disconnecting the battery. This is done to prevent electrical damage while carrying out other restoration tasks. The process involves locating the battery under the hood and disconnecting the negative terminal first, followed by the positive one. This precaution helps avoid dangerous electrical short circuits that could potentially worsen the situation.
Restoration steps
Fluid replacement and fuel tank drainage
After disconnecting the battery, it's time to inspect the water damage on engine and other essential parts of the vehicle. If these areas are wet, professional evaluation and repairs at an authorized service center are necessary. During this phase, all flooded fluids like engine oil, gearbox oil or coolant should be replaced. Additionally, draining the fuel tank is crucial to ensure a clean operational fuel system as water contamination can affect various components including cylinders and fuel injectors or carburetors.
Expert intervention
Importance of professional help
While some may be tempted to handle the restoration of their flooded car independently, it's highly recommended to seek professional assistance. Authorized service centers possess the necessary expertise and specialized equipment, needed to assess the extent of damage and carry out any required repairs. To ensure safe handling and avoid complications, it's best if the car is towed to a service center rather than driven there.