NEW YORK, Oct. 8 (UPI) -- It may only be water, but to a car it's a corrosive agent and it could prove dangerous if a car is swamped, as many were in New Orleans.
"Once water covers one-third to one half of your tire or higher -- that's when you should start worrying about possible damage," said Daniel Johnson, of Volvo Cars of North America. "If water gets into the car it could damage important electrical systems like the airbags and other sensitive electrical components."
Johnson recommends if a car is flooded, owners should not take the do-it-yourself approach, but have the car towed to an authorized dealer.
"Under no circumstances should the vehicle be started," said Johnson. "The airbag may deploy without warning. Your first step is to call your insurance company. They'll have specific guidelines for you to follow."
Johnson also recommends reading the owner's manual, which often addresses flood damage issues.
