Flooding caused by recent abnormal storms in the south-central provinces of Khanh Hoa and Dak Lak (formerly Phu Yen) has left many urban areas underwater, damaging thousands of vehicles.

The scenes are reminiscent of recent events in Hanoi, Thai Nguyen, Hue, and Da Nang, where hours of heavy rain submerged thousands of cars and caused widespread property damage.

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Numerous cars submerged outside Go Supermarket in Tay Nha Trang, Khanh Hoa. Photo: Duc Loi

According to experiences from northern Vietnam, how car owners react in the first hours of flooding plays a major role in determining the extent of damage.

Wrong actions - such as attempting to restart the engine, manually accessing electrical systems, or towing the car improperly - can easily cause hydrostatic lock, a cracked engine block, or electrical system failure, leading to repairs costing thousands of dollars.

On the other hand, many garages have successfully salvaged flood-damaged cars because owners followed proper procedures early on and avoided worsening the damage through misguided efforts.

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Owners’ initial responses during the first hours of submersion are critical. Photo: Xuan Ngoc

Speaking to VietNamNet, automotive engineer Duong Trung Kien, Director of Kien Phong Auto Services Co., Ltd. (Yen Hoa, Hanoi), explained that the degree of water damage can vary significantly depending on water depth and owner response.

One key reminder from Kien: never attempt to start a car that’s still wet or freshly emerged from flooding. Water may remain in the engine compartment and cause hydrostatic lock, bent connecting rods, or complete engine failure.

Instead, in severe flooding, disconnect the battery, avoid starting the engine, document the situation, and immediately call a trusted rescue service or garage to limit further damage.

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Hydrostatic lock is one of the most severe consequences of car flooding. Photo: Hoang Hiep

“Even without starting the engine, water can enter the air intake and engine bay. Oil and transmission fluid can become contaminated with water, reducing lubrication and causing corrosion. These issues may not show immediately but can lead to expensive damage over time - potentially half the vehicle’s value,” Kien said.

Beyond engine concerns, Kien pointed out that many modern vehicles have sensors and connectors placed low in the body. These are vulnerable to moisture and may cause erratic behavior or permanent faults. Interiors, carpets, and air conditioning systems are also at risk of mold, odor, and reduced resale value.

Once floodwaters recede, the car should be thoroughly inspected. This helps determine the water level and appropriate recovery steps. Each level of water damage calls for different actions.

If water only reaches the floor, the engine and transmission may be unaffected, but undercarriage, brakes, and interior still need cleaning.

If water reaches the engine bay, there’s a high risk of contaminated oil. In such cases, the car should be taken to a garage. If oil appears discolored, bubbly, or unusually thin, it must be changed immediately. Transmission fluid may also need replacement, and all electronic, air conditioning, and interior systems should be inspected and cleaned.

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Fixing a flood-damaged car requires extensive time and labor. Photo: Hoang Hiep

Experts agree: prevention is better than cure. Even if you’re unsure whether water entered the car, a post-flood inspection is essential. Early oil changes and minor maintenance are far cheaper than long-term hidden damage.

After a flood, drying and cleaning are crucial. Remove floor mats and possibly seats to air them out. Clean door gaps, storage compartments, and the trunk to prevent moisture buildup.

Use soft towels to dry the engine compartment and wiring connections - avoid high-pressure water on electronics. Clean and deodorize the air conditioning system. The sooner you act, the lower the risk of corrosion, odor, and lasting interior damage.

Though flooding from recent storms has wreaked havoc in the south-central provinces, past experience from northern and north-central Vietnam shows that many vehicles can still be salvaged if owners handle them properly.

The most critical step is ensuring electrical safety. Avoid DIY fixes, record the situation, and leave the work to professionals with the right expertise.

Hoang Hiep