Flooded car: what to do before you try to start it

ZeroTow · Updated October 9, 2026

In South Florida, a heavy storm, a king tide or a hurricane can leave a car sitting in water. What you do in the first hour can decide whether the engine survives.

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1. Your safety comes first

Never drive or walk through flooded roads. A foot or so of moving water can float a car, and you can't see holes or fallen power lines.
If the car stalls in rising water, get out and move to higher ground.
If you're in danger, call 911.

2. Don't start the engine

If water reached the engine, the air intake or the inside of the car, starting it can destroy the engine. Don't turn the key or press the start button, and don't try to restart a car that stalled in water. Hybrids and electric cars: don't touch the orange high-voltage cables, don't try to charge a car that was under water, and tell the tow driver and your dealer.

3. Document everything

Take photos and video of the water line on the car, the inside, the dashboard and the street.
Write down the date, time and place.
Call your insurance company before any repair. Flood damage is usually covered only with comprehensive coverage, so ask what your policy says and whether it includes towing.

4. Get it towed

A car that was in water usually shouldn't be driven or started, so it needs a tow. When you can, choose a flatbed in the app. Put the pin where the car is, and use the note for the driver to say the car was in water, which road is passable and where a dry spot is to meet. In heavy flooding a driver may have to wait for the water to go down. Tow it to a shop or dealer that handles flood damage, or home. The driver photographs the car before it's loaded and you sign off.

5. Dry it out quickly

Mold can start within a day or two. Don't leave wet carpets and seats sealed up in the car. Ask the shop or a detailer how to dry it out properly.