What Should You Do When Encountering A Flood With Your Subaru Car?

Flooding can be one of the most damaging situations for your car. When your Subaru car encounters a flooded area, it’s crucial to act swiftly and carefully to minimize potential damage. At Empire Subaru, we understand the importance of taking the right steps to ensure your car's safety during a flood. Here’s what you need to know and what you should do if you find yourself in a flood situation.

1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

If you encounter a flood, the first thing to do is stay calm. Do not panic. Floodwaters can rise quickly, so it’s important to assess your situation carefully. If you're driving, avoid attempting to drive through water unless it's shallow enough to pass safely. As a general rule, if the water level is above the bottom of your car’s tires, it’s too deep to drive through. Instead, turn around and find an alternative route. Never underestimate the power of moving water.

2. Avoid Starting the Engine

If you’re already parked in floodwaters, avoid starting the engine. When water enters the engine through the intake or exhaust, it can cause severe damage. Water can seep into the engine oil and transmission fluid, leading to major engine failure. If your Subaru is stuck in floodwater, and the engine is off, leave it off until a professional mechanic can inspect it.

3. Evacuate the Vehicle Safely

If you are stuck inside a flooded area, evacuate the vehicle safely. Do not wait for the water to rise higher. Water levels can escalate rapidly, and staying in the car could put you in danger. Move to higher ground immediately. Once you're safely out of the car, avoid trying to open the doors as water may rush inside quickly, making it difficult to escape.

4. Inspect Your Subaru After the Flood

Once the water has receded, and you’re sure it’s safe, inspect your Subaru. Water damage can affect various components, from the engine to the electronics, transmission, and interior. One of the first things you should do is check for water in the cabin, under the vehicle, and in the engine compartment. If the water level has reached or exceeded the vehicle’s floor, it’s a sign that your Subaru may have been severely impacted. In this case, have the car thoroughly inspected by a professional.

5. Get Professional Help for Assessment

After a flood, it’s essential to have your Subaru thoroughly examined by a certified technician. A mechanic will check for any water intrusion in the engine, transmission, brake systems, and electrical components. At Empire Subaru, our trained technicians specialize in assessing vehicles after flood damage and can provide the proper repairs or necessary replacements to ensure your car is back in safe, working condition.

Floods can be incredibly dangerous for your Subaru, but with the right precautions and quick action, you can protect your vehicle from serious damage. If you’ve encountered a flood with your Subaru, don’t hesitate to contact a professional for help. At Empire Subaru, our experts are ready to assess and repair your Subaru, ensuring that it stays in top condition no matter the conditions.