MY CAR GOT FLOODED–OUCH!
When a relatively new car gets flooded in Florida, several common problems can arise due to the extensive damage caused by the water intrusion. Here are some of the typical issues people face:
Electrical System Damage: Water can wreak havoc on a car’s electrical components, including the wiring harnesses, fuse boxes, sensors, and onboard computers. This can lead to malfunctioning of various systems such as the engine control unit (ECU), power windows, lights, and infotainment systems.
Engine Damage: If water enters the engine through the air-intake system or other openings, it can lead to hydro-locking, where the engine seizes due to water in the cylinders. Even if the engine doesn’t hydro-lock, water can damage internal components like pistons, rods, and bearings.
Transmission Issues: Water can infiltrate the transmission system, causing damage to gears, seals, and electronic components. This can result in difficulties with shifting gears or complete transmission failure.
Brake System Complications: Moisture can infiltrate the brake lines and components, leading to decreased braking efficiency or even failure. Brakes may become spongy or fail to respond properly.
Interior Damage: Floodwater can saturate the interior upholstery, carpets, and insulation, leading to mold, mildew, and unpleasant odors. If not properly dried and cleaned, this can also affect the vehicle’s structural integrity and cause rusting. Sometimes the bad odors never leave–Yuk!!!
Corrosion and Rust: Exposure to saltwater or contaminated floodwater can accelerate corrosion on metal components such as the undercarriage, suspension parts, and brake rotors. Over time, this corrosion can compromise the structural integrity of the vehicle.
HVAC System Issues: Water can damage the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, affecting climate control functions and potentially causing mold growth in the HVAC ducts.
Fluid Contamination: Floodwater can contaminate various fluids in the vehicle, including engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and coolant. Contaminated fluids may no longer provide adequate lubrication or protection, leading to accelerated wear and potential mechanical failures.
Insurance Challenges: Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging when you have a flood-damaged car. Depending on the coverage and policies, there may be disputes over whether certain damages are covered or the vehicle is deemed a total loss. This is even worse if you have negative equity or have not had a car payment for years.
Resale Value Decrease: Even if repairs are made, a flood-damaged car often suffers from decreased resale value and may be more difficult to sell in the future due to its history of water damage.
Navigating these challenges requires prompt action and often involves working with automotive professionals who specialize in flood damage restoration. In severe cases, the cost of repairs may outweigh the value of the vehicle, leading to difficult decisions regarding whether to repair or replace the car, possible legal battles, and financial losses. Most of these situations rarely have a happy ending. Be careful. Be prepared. Educate yourself. The negotiation will be extremely challenging.
