Flooded Vehicle. What to Do: The Ultimate Guide

The Hazards of Flood Damage to Your Car or Truck – And What to Do About It

Heavy rains in parts of Kentucky has led to flooding. And though we in Shelbyville managed to avoid direct effect of the flood, it’s a good time to remind drivers the hazards of flooding to our vehicles. Because floodwaters and vehicles are a dangerous mix. And whether from heavy rains, hurricanes, or flash floods, exposure to deep water can cause serious and often irreversible damage to your car or truck. So, in this blog the experts at Meineke in Shelbyville offer this ultimate guide on what you need to know if your car or truck is exposed to floodwaters and you have flooded vehicle damage.

Hazards of Flooded Vehicle Damage

Engine and Mechanical Damage

- Water can seep into the engine, transmission, and differentials, leading to severe internal damage to a flooded vehicle. And if water enters the intake, it can cause hydrolock, where the engine seizes up, potentially totaling your vehicle.

Electrical System Failure

- Modern vehicles rely heavily on electronics, from ignition systems to onboard computers. And floodwater can corrode wiring, short out circuits, and cause costly or permanent failure of essential components.

Mold and Interior Damage

- Waterlogged carpets, seats, and insulation create the perfect environment for mold and mildew in a flooded vehicle. And this leads to unpleasant odors and potential health hazards.

Brake and Suspension Issues

- Flood exposure can compromise your brakes, bearings, and suspension system. And this leads to rust and reduced performance that can be dangerous when driving.

Fuel and Fluid Contamination

- Floodwater can mix with your fuel, oil, and transmission fluid, causing contamination that leads to engine damage or failure.

What to Do If You Have Flooded Vehicle Damage

Do Not Start the Engine – If water has reached the intake or electrical components, starting the engine can cause immediate and severe damage. Instead, call Meineke in Shelbyville to arrange for a two to have it checked by their ASE certified experts.
Check Fluid Levels – Look for signs of water contamination in the oil, transmission fluid, and fuel. And if they appear milky or discolored, they need to be changed immediately.
Inspect the Electrical System – Check your lights, power locks, windows, and other electronics for malfunctions.
Dry Out the Interior – If the inside of your vehicle got wet, remove carpets and upholstery as soon as possible to prevent mold growth.
Consult Meineke – Have the ASE professionals at Meineke on Midland Trail in Shelbyville inspect your vehicle to assess the extent of damage. Because they can help you determine if repairs are worth it.
Check Your Insurance – Comprehensive coverage may cover flood damage, so contact your insurance provider to see if you qualify for repairs or a replacement.

Flooded Vehicle | Meineke Car Care | Shelbyville, KY

Meineke in Shelbyville is Your Flood Damage Experts

Flood-damaged vehicles can be unsafe and costly to repair. So, if your car or truck has been in a flood, act fast to assess the damage and take the necessary steps to prevent further issues. And when in doubt, have the flood damage professionals at Meineke in Shelbyville inspect it before hitting the road again.

If the Meineke in Shelbyville is not a convenient auto repair center for you, Meineke has 15 car repair centers is Kentucky:

Meineke Car Care – Dixie Hwy.
5326 DIXIE HWY
Louisville, KY 40216
Call (844) 311-4548

Meineke Car Care – Preston Hwy.
7103 Preston Highway
Louisville, KY 40219
Call (844) 605-8457

Meineke Car Care – Bardstown Rd.
4170 Bardstown Road
Louisville, KY 40218
Call (844) 321-3541

Meineke Car Care – East. Broadway
701 East Broadway
Louisville, KY 40202
Call (855) 973-7820

Meineke Car Care – Outer Loop
6420 Outer Loop
Louisville, KY 40228
Call (844) 417-2336

Meineke Car Care – Shelbyville Rd.
11514 Shelbyville Road
Louisville, KY 40243
Call (844) 352-0216

Meineke Car Care – Dupont Rd.
1019 Dupont Road
Louisville, KY 40207
Call (502) 791-9526

Meineke Car Care – Plantside Dr.
10723 Plantside Drive
Louisville, KY 40299
Call (502) 536-9765

Meineke Car Care – So. Dixie Blvd.
2197 South Dixie Blvd.
Radcliff, KY 40160
Call (866) 548-1474

Meineke Car Care – Shelbyville Rd.
3949 Shelbyville Rd
St. Matthews, KY 40207
Call (888) 633-4889

Meineke Car Care – N. Dixie Hwy.
1400 N. Dixie Hwy.
Elizabethtown, KY 42701
Call (877) 439-7844

Meineke Car Care – Midland Trail
2000 Midland Trail
Shelbyville, KY 40065
Call (844) 681-4659

Meineke Car Care – W. Hwy. 146
3717 KY-146
Buckner, KY 40010
Call (844) 353-6212

Meineke Car Care – Peachtree Rd.
100 Peachtree Road
Nicholasville, KY 40356
Call (859) 687-8290

Meineke Car Care – Arrowhead Ct.
101 Arrowhead Court
Frankfort, KY 40601
Call (833) 723-5010

Meineke Car Care in Shelbyville, KY

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