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Deal Smartly with Water Damage in Cars
Water damage is a serious threat to electronic gadgets such as mobiles, audio players and even cars. Cars are the main victims during rains, snowfalls and floods. Water can damage car to great extent under heavy rains or if the car is driven through waterlogged areas. Water damage definitely reduces the life of a car but if one takes a little care before taking a car out in rainy season, the hazards can be minimized to some extent. Below are the routine checks that one can follow to keep the car in perfect condition.
Check the Engine
The engine of the car is first part that gets affected by water. Most of the Indian cars have low air intake valve at the front of the engine. Even a small quantity of water being sucked by the valve can cause devastating affect. Keep the car engine revving when driving through standing water so that water don’t enter the engine through the exhaust. Turbo charged engines and diesel engines are more susceptible to water damage.
Observe the Transmission Fluid
After heavy rain or flood, if the transmission fluid appears to be milky, diluted and beige in colour, tow the car to the garage immediately. Ensure that the car is not driven because diluted transmission can cause more serious damage. Drain all the fluid present and re-fill the transmission fluid in the engine.
Inspect the Brake System
Water logging spoils the overall working of the brakes and brake hardware. Replace all the parts that have been damaged by water and flush out the brake fluid. Dry the calipers and parking brake cable. Re-lubricate after replacement and alteration.
Examine Wheels and Drive Joints
Wheels bearings and rubber drive boots should be removed immediately. Check the condition and allow them to dry. If required install new boots and lubricate the joints. This is the most costly and labour intensive repair against water damage.
Check the Interiors
In some cases, car interiors also get spoiled but that is manageable. Observe the interiors well and take out all the mats, car seats, upholstery and other materials from inside the car to dry them. After drying the car interior completely, spray a disinfectant to prevent molds. If possible get the mats and upholstery replaced.
Reform the Exterior Damage
Look on to all the door panels, windows, door drains and blockage holes. Lubricate door hinges to avoid noise and smooth closing and opening of the door. Rains are associated with high amount of acid that can cause damage to the polish and paint. Check for scratches and spots and immediately rub them off using terrycloth or a specific car washer. Acid can bind to the paint and cause long term damage.
