How Do You Recover A Car That's Gone In The Water?

Submerged in water can be disastrous for your car, particularly your interior, electrical system, and engine. If over half of your vehicle has been immersed in water, continue reading to find out how to recover a car that’s gone in the water.

Contact Your Insurance Company
It doesn’t matter the magnitude of the flood damage, the first thing you must do is contact your insurance company. Flood damage is typically covered by comprehensive (theft and fire) insurance.

​Even if you have no collision coverage, you might be covered for whatever replacements or repairs you'll encounter. Your insurance carrier will most likely be swamped with claims, so it's a good idea to begin the process early.

Don’t Start Your Car
You’re tempted to turn the key to see if your automobile still works. However, if there’s water in the engine, trying to start, it could destroy it beyond repair. Try the other tips before attempting to drive your vehicle again.

How Deep was the Car Under Water?
Debris and mud typically leave a waterline on the car, outside and inside. The majority of insurance companies will deem the vehicle damaged beyond repair if water reaches the dashboard or higher.

If this is the case, then have a towing company transport your car to a mechanic for a professional inspection. If the water didn't get above your door bottoms, your automobile is fine.

Look at the Air Cleaner and Oil
If you see water drops on the dipstick, the level of the oil is high, or if the air filter contains water, don’t try to start the car. Call a tow truck and have it taken to a mechanic to get the fluids changed and the water cleared.

Examine All Electrical Systems
Next, inspect your electrical system (if you don’t know how to do so, get an automotive technician to do it for you.

To try it yourself, start your vehicle and then try everything electrical in it: seats, power locks, windows, AC, headlights, interior lights, and turn signals. If something is acting funny, it could be a sign that there’s a problem with your electrical system.

Have a mechanic inspect it. Most likely your insurance will cover any damage.​

---