You have driven through a flood. What is the first thing you should do?

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Things to check after driving through a flood

1) Check your brakes.

If you exit from a flood and your car's engine is still running, don't press the accelerator too hard just immediately. After being wet in water, your brakes usually slide more and lose their grip. Before you resume driving, it is a good idea to hit the brake pedal a few times. This will restore the contact between the pads and the rotors/drums to its natural, dry state, allowing for optimal bite.

2) Observe your engine’s behavior.

Be extremely aware of how your engine performs after passing a flooded region, depending on how deep the water is and what automobile you drive. Check to see if the idling has become jerky or if you notice a sudden loss of power coupled with strange sounds. When such abnormal signs appear, park in a safe, dry location and perform the following:


a. Check your oil dipstick.

Water droplets will leak on your dipstick if water has entered your engine, for example, through your air intake. The oil may also seem milky, which is a strong indication of water contamination. Juts only hope it hasn't yet caused mechanical harm to your engine. In certain circumstances, hydrolock may develop, indicating that the engine has stalled owing to damaged piston rods or other kinds of serious water damage.


b. Inspect your air filter.

If water has entered through the air intake, your filter element and airbox are likely to be wet. Another reason not to keep going. If it's dry, water must have come in through another crack. A certified mechanic will need to do a comprehensive examination.


c. If there is water in your mill, do not restart your vehicle and contact for help.
Water contamination in an engine is not something to be ignored. It is best to have your car towed to a certified shop or dealership for appropriate diagnosis, oil replacement, and any repairs.

3) Check your vital electrical and electronic parts.

Though most new vehicles electrical connectors are more water resistant, there is no assurance that moisture will not enter and create problems such as shorting. If everything is in working order, inspect the fuses in the fusebox. When a fuse busted, look for the specific part by referring to the legend on the fuse box cover. Check your computer box as well to determine whether it has suffered any damage. Wipe it down with a clean towel to eliminate as much moisture as possible and speed up the drying process. Check all of your outdoor lights if your fuses are fine.