Heavy rain can turn roads into flowing water in a very short time. For cars, that often means that write-off. But sometimes they can also be saved.
Torrential rainfalls in some regions of Germany not only drowned countless cellars, but also hundreds of cars. That doesn't always mean a total loss - if you behave correctly after the flood.
In order not to aggravate the problems, it is important to act carefully: In no way should one attempt to start a previously flooded car. If water has penetrated the engine, what is known as “water hammer” could occur, which destroys the engine. Even if the combustion engine starts and runs, there is a risk that liquid has got into the oil, which can also lead to engine damage.
Switching on the ignition or other consumers causes short circuits and other problems in the electrical system or vehicle electronics in many cases. Therefore the battery should be disconnected as soon as possible. The best thing to do is to have the car towed to a specialist workshop. There it is then examined whether draining is worthwhile. This depends on the time value, immersion depth and dirt in the water.
As a rule, a water depth up to the wheel hubs is not a problem for vehicles. Sometimes the operating instructions also state the permissible "immersion depth". In the case of SUVs and off-road vehicles, this is naturally larger than in the case of a low-lying sports car. It always looks bad when the engine partially or completely comes under the surface of the water.
As a rule, comprehensive insurance covers the damage caused by flooding. However, this may not apply if negligence was involved. Anyone who drives carelessly through a deep puddle or parks directly on a low river bank despite the storm warning could be left with the costs.
