Why Driving Through Flood Water is Bad for Your Vehicle
As we watch the aftermath of Hurricane Helene make it’s way through the southern states, it’s a good reminder that it’s also hurricane season here in Millsboro. And Sussex County emergency officials stress being aware and cautious during this 2024 hurricane season, Because knowing what to do and what not to do can mean life and death for your car or truck. For example, if confronted with flooding, think first before driving onward. Because through driving through flood water may seem tempting when you’re in a rush or think it’s not that deep, but it may have serious consequences for your vehicle.
Floodwaters are unpredictable and pose various risks, from damaging your car’s engine to compromising its electrical systems. So, in this blog the experts at In and Out Tire Pros explore why you should avoid driving through flood water and what potential damage it can cause to your vehicle.
1. Engine Damage: The Risk of Hydrolock
One of the most significant risks of driving through flood water is hydrolock, which occurs when water enters the engine through the air intake system. Because, your engine is designed to compress air, not water. And when water enters the engine cylinders, it can’t be compressed, causing internal components such as connecting rods and pistons to bend or break. This can lead to catastrophic engine failure, requiring expensive repairs or even a complete engine replacement.
Key Point: Just a small amount of water can cause hydrolock, leading to severe and costly engine damage.
2. Electrical System Failures
Modern vehicles rely heavily on complex electrical systems, including the engine control unit (ECU), sensors, and wiring harnesses. And water exposure can short-circuit these components, leading to erratic behavior, warning lights on your dashboard, and loss of essential vehicle functions. Plus, in severe cases, the ECU, which controls the engine, can be damaged beyond repair.
Key Point: Water can infiltrate electrical components, leading to unpredictable failures and costly repairs.
3. Transmission Damage
Flood water can also enter your vehicle’s transmission system, especially in cars with automatic transmissions. And water contamination in the transmission fluid can cause slippage, overheating, and internal damage to the transmission parts. Worse yet, this damage often goes unnoticed until symptoms like delayed shifting or grinding noises develop, which can result in extensive and costly repairs.
Key Point: Water-contaminated transmission fluid leads to poor performance and potential transmission failure.
4. Brakes and Steering Complications
Flood water can significantly impair your brakes and steering. Because, when brakes get wet, they lose friction, which can reduce stopping power and lead to dangerous driving conditions. Furthermore, flood water can also affect the steering system by causing components to rust or malfunction. And this makes it harder to control your vehicle.
Key Point: Flood water can compromise critical safety systems, making it difficult to control your vehicle safely.
5. Exhaust System Damage
Driving through deep water can cause water to enter the exhaust system, leading to back pressure that can stall the engine. And if the exhaust system is submerged for a prolonged period, it can also cause rust and corrosion, leading to holes in the exhaust pipes and muffler, which can be costly to repair.
Key Point: Water in the exhaust system can stall your engine and cause long-term damage through rust and corrosion.
6. Contaminated Fluids
Flood water can mix with essential vehicle fluids, including oil, coolant, and transmission fluid. And these contaminated fluids can damage internal engine components, reduce lubrication, and cause overheating. In fact, even small amounts of water can significantly affect fluid performance. And this can lead to engine and transmission damage.
Key Point: Water contamination of essential fluids leads to poor performance and severe damage to engine and transmission components.
7. Interior Damage and Mold Growth
Flood water entering your vehicle’s cabin can damage upholstery, carpets, and electronics. And water-soaked interiors can lead to mold and mildew growth, creating unpleasant odors and potential health risks. Plus, this type of damage often requires extensive cleaning and repairs, including replacing affected components.
Key Point: Interior flooding leads to mold, unpleasant smells, and costly repairs to upholstery and electronics.
8. Tire and Suspension Damage
Driving through flood water can conceal potholes, debris, and uneven road surfaces. And this can cause damage to your tires and suspension system. Because, sudden impacts can bend suspension components, misalign the wheels, or even cause tire blowouts. And these damages not only affect ride quality but also compromise vehicle safety.
Key Point: Hidden hazards in flood water can cause immediate and long-term damage to tires and suspension systems.
What to Do if You’ve Driven Through Flood Water
If you’ve already driven through flood water, it’s crucial to get your vehicle inspected at In and Out Tire Pros as soon as possible. And in the meantime, here are some steps to follow:
- Do Not Start the Engine: If water has entered the engine, starting it can worsen the damage.
- Check for Contaminated Fluids: Inspect oil, transmission, and brake fluids for water contamination.
- Inspect Brakes and Suspension: Have your brakes, tires, and suspension inspected for any hidden damage.
- Dry Out the Interior: If water has entered the cabin, dry it out immediately to prevent mold growth.
Driving through flood water can cause significant damage to your vehicle.
When you drive through flooded streets you risk damage resulting in expensive repairs and safety issues. So, the best course of action is to avoid flood water whenever possible. But if you encounter flooded roads, turn around and find an alternative route. And remember, the damage caused by driving through flood water far outweighs the inconvenience of finding a safer path. Also remember that if you do experience any damage due to floodwaters, In and Out Tires in Millsboro can help.
In and Out Tire Pros is a local, family owned auto care and auto repair service center. And one that Bill and Rita Schrider have built into the top, trusted auto repair, auto care shop in Millsboro. We are dedicated to giving you the very best auto repair and auto care service. And we have a focus on upfront and honest quotes, timely response to issues, and quality products and parts.
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