Can Flood Water Damage Your Brakes?

In the UK, there’s always a risk of rain in the forecast! But, over the last few years, global warming has meant that extreme rainfall and flooding are becoming an increasingly common occurrence.

Flooding on the road is a major hazard, which can seriously compromise drivers’ safety. What’s more, it is also one of the most common causes of vehicle damage in the UK.

In fact, according to an article published by ALA Insurance, flood damage is the leading risk factor for vehicle damage, with 70% of flood-damaged cars being written off, and 20% of all vehicle write-offs being caused by bad weather conditions.

So, to help you avoid these risks, we’ve used this article to help drivers understand the risk of flood damage, including driving through flooded water, and parking your vehicle in a flooded area.

What are the risks of driving through floods?

Flooding creates extremely hazardous driving conditions. Not only can this seriously risk the drivers’ safety, but driving through flood water or parking your vehicle in a flooded area can lead to expensive (or even irreversible) vehicle damage.

The risks that floods pose to vehicles include:

  • Brake damage, or brake failure
  • Engine damage (if water floods the engine)
  • Loss of vehicle control
  • General water damage
  • Stalling
  • Not noticing hidden hazards (e.g. potholes or road debris)
  • Hydroplaning
  • Hydrolock (if water enters the car’s exhaust system)
  • Tyre punctures (as a result of hidden debris or hazards)

If you know that the surrounding area has flooded, but you absolutely cannot avoid travelling, then you can attempt to drive through the water. However, you must do so slowly, carefully and in a low gear, without stopping. Then, after you have driven through, you should immediately inspect your vehicle for damage (more on this below).

Furthermore, if the flood water is fast moving, or if the water is higher than 6 inches deep, then you should find an alternative route.

Brakes

The main signs of vehicle water damage

If you have driven your vehicle through a flood (or parked it in a flooded area), then you need to check it over as soon as possible (and before you resume driving).

To assess your vehicle for water damage, you will need to inspect:

The brakes – More details on this below.
The engine – For stalling or dashboard warning lights.
The exhaust – For water entry, excessive smoke, or unusual noises.
Tyres – For punctures or damage.

How to test your brakes for water damage

The most important part of your vehicle to check is the brakes.

If the flood water has compromised your brakes, then it is not safe to continue driving your vehicle.

You can test your brakes for water damage by:

  • Gently applying pressure gently to the brakes, while driving slowly.
  • See whether the brakes are working normally (keeping your driving slow).
  • If the brakes feel weaker, then this could be due to waterlogging. In this case, apply the brakes a few more times, while continuing to drive. Their performance may improve, after a few uses.
  • If the brakes remain weak or ineffective, even after a few uses, then you will need to take your vehicle to a garage. They can then assess the vehicle, and recommend the best course of action.

Auto Exhausts & Tyres are a trusted, independent garage, specialising in servicing and repairs, and trusted by vehicle owners across Lincoln and the surrounding areas.

So, if you spot any issues with your brakes after being in a flood, don’t hesitate to call us and book in.