The Effects of Water Damage on Your Vehicle

It might still be winter, but it’s not long until the spring thaw will begin, and with this season’s warm fronts might come periods of very heavy rain. Both short, severe downpours and prolonged periods of steady rain can occur as a result, and of course the risk of flooding might beckon as these events develop. It’s important to protect your possessions from any of the ramifications of these hazards, and of course one of the most obvious items that you need to keep an eye on is your car.

Even though vehicles are durable, they aren’t indestructible. They aren’t immune to water damage, either, and when it occurs the results could be exceptionally costly. It’s always best to do all you can to prevent water damage to your vehicle, but if you find yourself facing a worst-case scenario, then your auto insurance might be able to step in to help you.

Steps to Avoid Water Damage

Cars are tightly sealed to keep water out. After all, they are exposed to the elements 24 hours per day, and if water were to get in, then it could cause considerable damage to your engine, electrical system and interior, not to mention your possessions.

Still, though they might be strong, your car’s seals are not your only line of defense against water damage. Preventing further damage usually starts and end with the owner.

One of the most basic ways to protect yourself is to roll up your windows. Never leave them down when you are not inside the vehicle. Of course, never leave them down when driving through severe weather. Additionally, don’t forget to double check your windows and doors when going through car washes.
Don’t forget that your car has more seals than just those around your windows. There are also seals around your hood, trunk and headlights, to name a few areas. If you begin to notice dampness or moisture in these areas, then it might be time to call a mechanic.
If you know that severe weather is threatening your area, then double-check that your car is completely closed. If possible, park your vehicle in the garage or carport, or even consider taking the extra step of covering the vehicle with a tarp.
If you know that flooding is a threat in your area, then move your vehicle to higher ground beforehand.

Never consider driving during times of heavy rain unless you absolutely have to, and never drive through floodwaters.

Your auto insurance policy will often include coverage for water damage, but there will be conditions attached. Comprehensive coverage is a part of your auto policy that will cover damage that arises from hazards other than collisions, and water damage is usually included as a covered peril.

However, comprehensive coverage does not insure water damage that is otherwise preventable. So, if water damage arises because you carelessly left your windows down in a rainstorm, then your plan is unlikely to cover you. That’s why it’s always important to avoid water damage as bet you can.

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