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Can driving through water damage your car?
I live in an area that’s prone to flash floods. While I know driving through rising waters isn’t a smart idea, I’m not sure if doing so will actually damage my car. Can driving through water do significant damage to my vehicle?
Eric Schad · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Flash floods are nothing to mess with. While the rapid waters can sweep away your car, they can also damage your vehicle if you drive through them. Some of the most common results of water damage include:
- Engine failure
- Warped brake discs due to the rapid cooling of the metal
- Cosmetic damage to the exterior of your car from debris
- Cosmetic damage to the interior of your car due to excessive moisture
- Severe damage to electrical components
As a general rule, you shouldn’t drive on roads that have more than three inches of water. Six inches of water can get into the floorboards, a foot of water can cause your car to float, and two feet of water can sweep your car away. Always use caution and avoid driving if flash floods are predicted.
If you live in an area that’s prone to flooding, you need to have the right insurance to protect you. So if you own a home,
bundling
is a smart idea to save money.Jerry is a licensed insurance broker that provides quotes from dozens of top-rated and well-known car insurance companies. After you find a great rate, Jerry can help you buy insurance and cancel your old policy. Customers save an average of nearly $900 per year!
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- Gregory R.
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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
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