KUALA LUMPUR: With the recent flash floods happening in Klang Valley, it's crucial to know when and how to save your vehicle from any potential damage that could result in massive repair bills. Follow these seven important tips:
1. Avoid driving or parking in low-lying areas
Low areas or certain basement parking lots can be prone to flooding during heavy downpours. Your car may become partly submerged and the flood can cause heavy damage to your car, especially to the engine, electrical systems, and interior.
2. Avoid driving through tunnels
The risk of being caught in a flash flood is higher when driving into an underground tunnel as you are approaching lower ground that rain water is flowing to. In general, avoid driving through any flooded areas if possible.
3. Maintain a steady slow speed
Assess the situation or surroundings first if you need to drive through a flood. If the level is below half your vehicle's tire, make sure to wade through at slow speed by engaging low gear. This helps to create a small bow wave which will avoid the surrounding water to flood the engine bay or flow into the exhaust pipe.
4. Your safety is the utmost priority
If your car engine happened to stop and you are stranded in the car, turn off the engine, gather your belongings and leave your stalled car immediately. Do not try to start your car again as it will lead to more major damage. Proceed to higher ground and stay there until help arrive.
5. Don't start the car immediately if your car has been submerged
Water would most likely have seeped into the engine, transmission, or fuel system of your car after being submerged. Don't start the car as you'll just compound the damage. Immediately seek for mechanic's advice after the flood water has subsided or tow your car to your trusted mechanic and let the car professional take care of it.
6. Disconnect your vehicle's battery
Do not leave your vehicle in accessory mode with the electronics running when you are stuck in a flood. Turn off the engine, disconnect your vehicle's battery and please seek assistance from a mechanic once the situation returns to normal to test if the battery is functioning optimally.
7. Check if your car has flood insurance
Do you know that most vehicle insurance providers offer flood insurance as an add-on? With the change in weather patterns recently, it's the right time to tick that option upon renewing your insurance. Call your insurance company to know more about its benefits and how to add it on.