Overflowing waterways and torrential rains are always a constant danger in the tropics even worst during hurricane season. Before you try to drive through deep water, beware - It's not only dangerous, but it can cause costly, sometimes irreparable damage to your car’s carpeting, electronics, engine lets just say the entire car. If the water is any deeper than the ground clearance of your car, don't try going through and for most customized cars the ground clearance is 5 inches and less. If for any reason your car get submerged more than a few inches deep, you need to get it thoroughly inspected immediately. Flood or water damage if left untouched it can cause great damage to your car.

Water damage to a car can come from many things. Flood damage is one example. Flood damage is usually very serious because it can often involve the car being submerged in the water for a long period of time. Other water damage can result from driving through a flooded area. The one we encounter most here in Jamaica. Although the car does not remain in the water as long, and may not have been as deeply submerged in the water, the damage could still be serious. Water damage could be caused when a car is not properly protected from the outside elements. Body damage, an open hood, or open windows during extended periods of heavy rain can result in body damage.

Engine and Transmission
The first area of concern when dealing with water damage is the engine and the transmission fluids. They should be checked with the dipstick. If you observe fluids that appear milky, beige in color, or appear diluted, there is a good chance water is in the pans. In this case, the automobile should be towed to a repair facility. If you attempt to drive it with water in the oil or transmission, the damage will quickly become much more serious. If you have any doubts, have it towed. Once the car is in a safe place, the transmission and oil pans can be completely drained, and the fluids replaced.

Brake System
The next area of concern is the brake system. This important system does not react well to being submerged in water either. As soon as possible the brake system should be inspected. Then it should be dried completely, and fluids replaced. Once the car is dry, a complete re-lubrication should be done.

Interior
The interior of a car will not react well to be submerged either. Although fabric will dry on its own, moisture will seep into the material. It will pool underneath against the firewall and you will have a mildew smell in the car for the remainder of its life. It is the potential problems from water damage to the interior that leads insurance companies to tend to declare flood damaged cars a total loss. It is the best approach to have the interior torn out, completely dried, and replaced by a professional.