Car Stuck in Flood, What Should Be Done?

The rainy season has begun to pour over Indonesia since the end of October. Friends who often pass through or are in flood-affected areas should be more vigilant. The situation of a car getting stuck in a flood can happen suddenly, for example when passing through an underpass, a lower road, or an area with poor drainage.

In such conditions, making the right and calm decision is crucial. Besides the safety of passengers, a wrong step can also make the damage to the car much worse. Here is a complete guide that you can apply when your car is stuck in a flood.

What to Do When Your Car is Stuck in a Flood?

The main priority is the safety of passengers, not the car. Follow these steps:

• Stay calm and stop the vehicle in the safest place.
  Do not force your way through deep water or strong currents. If possible, reverse slowly or look for a higher route.
• Turn on the hazard lights so that other vehicles know your position.
• Prepare an exit route early. Open the windows while the electrical system is still functioning, as power windows may fail when submerged. Have a glass breaker and seatbelt cutter ready if available.
• Contact assistance, such as family, towing services, or emergency number 112  (without charge) if the situation threatens safety. For friends in Jakarta, you can contact the Basarnas hotline at 115.

It is important to remember that water as high as about 30 cm is enough to make many cars lose traction and start being swept away, especially if the current is strong. Do not underestimate seemingly shallow puddles.

Should the Car Engine Be Turned Off?

The answer depends on the condition of the car at that time.

Turn off the engine if:

• The car starts to sputter or stalls in the water.
• Water has reached the bottom of the body or is seen entering the engine area.
• Warning indicators appear on the dashboard abnormally.

Do not restart the engine if water is suspected to have entered. This is the most common mistake. Water entering through the air intake into the combustion chamber cannot be compressed like the air-fuel mixture. This condition is called water hammer or hydrolock, and can bend or break internal components such as the connecting rod. As a result, the engine can suffer severe damage and the repair costs can be very high.

Therefore, once the engine dies in the flood, let it remain off and do not attempt to start it as it risks damaging several components.

10 Car Components at Risk of Damage Due to Flooding

Several components are at risk of damage and need to be checked by a professional technician, here is the list.

1. Air filter and air intake 
2. ECU and electronic modules
3. Electrical cables and connectors
4. Alternator and starter motor
5. Transmission
6. Engine oil and internal engine components
7. Brake system
8. Carpets, seats, and cabin insulation
9. Wheel bearings and suspension components
10. Fuel tank and fuel system

Read Also: Used Car Inspection: Complete Guide to Check Administration and Physical Condition

Conclusion

When your car is stuck in a flood, prioritize passenger safety, turn off the engine if water has entered or the car stalls, and immediately leave the vehicle if the water continues to rise. After the flood recedes, do not rush to start the car. Tow it to a workshop and ask a professional technician to check the engine, electrical system, brakes, oil, and other components that may be affected.

With the right steps, you can minimize the risk of injury while avoiding greater car damage.