Important: Do not start a flooded car – there is a risk of engine damage. The most important tips and information if your vehicle has been a victim of flooding.
“If the engine compartment of a car was underwater, a tow must be arranged for safety reasons “This must be done immediately,” explains ÖAMTC technician Steffan Kerbl. Because “if there is water in the cylinder,” it can cause engine damage.
Sand and water can also cause damage to the chassis and brakes, which only becomes apparent after months, warns the ÖAMTC.
So what should you do? Tips from the ÖAMTC:
- Waterline below the wheel center: There are usually no functional problems. However, the ball joints and tie rod joints should be checked.
- Waterline above the wheel center: Wheel bearings and drive shafts are affected. If the vehicle is exposed to these conditions for several hours or even days, water penetrates the bearings and joints. “Unfortunately, it stays there even after the water level has dropped,” says Kerbl. The exhaust is also affected, as it can corrode due to the water.
- Water level above the bottom edge of the door: Water penetrates the interior and the cavities of the body. This can also damage the electrics. “A trip to the workshop is unavoidable,” says the ÖAMTC expert.
- Bonnet below the waterline: This means that the water is practically everywhere – from the engine intake system and through the exhaust to the exhaust valves. DO NOT START the car. The vehicle must be thoroughly drained in a specialist workshop.
Does the insurance pay?
Anyone who discovers damage to their car after the flood should proceed correctly: “Damage should be reported Photos documented and the insurance reported immediately “advises ÖAMTC chief legal officer Martin Hoffer. “Any attempt to start the vehicle, which could result in engine damage, should be avoided refrain from. In this case, the insurance company may refuse payment.”
What insurance do I need?
In order for the insurance to pay, you need the right protection. “Only those who have completed Comprehensive insurance is entitled to financial compensation,” explains the ÖAMTC expert. As part of a Partial or fully comprehensive insurance the repair and towing costs to the nearest workshop or scrap yard are covered. “In the event of a total loss the compensation is calculated from the difference between the current value of the vehicle before the loss occurred and the residual value of the wreck.”
