Flooded vehicle: What to do if your car has been submerged?

What are the first steps to take when your vehicle is flooded?

1. Avoid starting the engine

Even if your car looks fine, do not attempt to start it. Doing so could push water into the engine and worsen the damage. Instead, have your damaged vehicle towed to a trusted mechanic. 

2. Report the damage to your insurance company

Do this as soon as the water reaches halfway up the wheels, even if the car still seems to run. Take photos and videos for your insurance claim. The damage will be assessed to determine if repairs are possible. If the vehicle is deemed beyond repair under Quebec auto insurance coverage (SAAQ) rules, it will be declared a total loss. 

3. Dry out and ventilate the vehicle

 Even if the car may not be repairable, a few simple steps can help reduce the impact of moisture: 

• Remove the floor mats; 

• Vacuum standing water with a wet-dry vacuum or sump pump; 

• Blot the seats and surfaces; 

• Open the doors, windows, and trunk to allow air circulation and speed up drying. 

When is a vehicle declared a total loss?

A car is generally declared a total loss when water damage exceeds its value. This often happens after partial or full submersion, since water can severely damage mechanical, electrical, and electronic components. 

Even if some vehicles are more watertight, the risks of corrosion and system failures remain high. The interior, in particular, is rarely salvageable after flooding. 

In most cases, flooded vehicles are labelled non-repairable vehicles by the SAAQ, a status added to both the registration and insurance file. This guarantees the car cannot return to circulation, although it may be sold for parts. 

Tip: Before buying a used car, always request a professional used vehicle inspection. Undeclared flood damage can be hard to spot. A Carfax report, or other vehicle history report, can provide useful information, and checking the vehicle’s region of origin is key—especially if it comes from a flood- or hurricane-prone area. 

Can a flooded vehicle be put back on the road?

No, a vehicle declared flooded cannot return to circulation. However, if water did not rise above the mid-point of the wheels, the car may sometimes be repaired and put back on the road under strict conditions: 

• Repairs must be completed with brand-new original parts; 

• The car must be covered by valid auto insurance; 

• It must pass an inspection approved by the insurer. 

Ask your insurance company to recommend a specialized garage, or choose your own. In both cases, make sure repairs match the insurer’s estimate. 

How to prevent water leaks in a vehicle?

While you can’t always prevent a natural disaster, certain habits can help preventing water damage: 

Monitor your sunroof or convertible roof

Sunroofs—especially panoramic ones—are often the source of leaks. Check your owner’s manual to see if periodic maintenance is required. A sunroof drain inspection is often recommended. 

Use custom-fit floor mats

Over time, mud, salt, and moisture can seep under the flooring and damage wiring or electronic components. 

Choose moulded rubber mats, like WeatherTech models available at the CAA-Quebec Boutique, specialized retailers, or dealerships. They help extend the life of your car’s flooring. 

Does car insurance cover a flooded vehicle?

The vast majority of auto insurance policies cover flood damage. To confirm your coverage or add protection, contact your insurance broker or agent. 

In case of flooding, your insurer will evaluate the damage according to SAAQ criteria and then decide whether the vehicle is repairable or a total loss.