Batteries
Sometimes you can tell the condition of a battery just by looking at it. Most flood damaged cars would require a new battery unless they were sealed when the car was submerged. If the ignition, lighting, and other electrical components of the car are not working, it is probably because the battery is malfunctioning. When inspecting the battery, look for instances such as a broken terminal, the bulge, leaks, discoloration, and cracks in the plastic cover. If you notice any of these issues in the battery, get the battery replaced.
Clutch
Don’t get misled by functional clutch pedal as you may encounter the major problem while changing gears. The clutch may not engage with the gear when the engine is running. The dysfunctional clutch is a common problem in flood damaged cars. Prolonged exposure to water usually rust the clutch box; there is also a possibility that the disc had stuck to the pressure plate or flywheel after it got wet. To address the issue, first start the engine then reverse gear a few times to “shock” the clutch while pumping the pedal. If this doesn’t work, hire a local mechanic.
Wheel Bearings
Prolonged exposure to water during flood like conditions can damage wheel bearings. As wheel bearings are important to spin wheel fast with little friction, it is important to get wheel bearings of your salvage car get inspected by a local mechanic. In case bearings are not damaged, lubricate them with grease to enhance their life. Also, don’t forget to check the hubcaps along with wheel bearings.
Fuel System
In a flood-damaged car, it is likely that the water has entered the fuel tank. To be on safer side, completely drain the fuel tank. When refilling avoid using ethanol based fuels as it usually drops out of suspension. Don't’ forget to replace filters, as mud or dirt during the flood might have clogged them.
Final Few Words
These are a few tips you can follow to restore the functionality of a salvaged flood damaged car. In addition, there can be other minor issues that need to be fixed to ensure your car is reliable, safe, and runs efficiently. Lastly, if you don’t have enough knowledge on car parts, it is advised to employ an experienced local mechanic to do the job.