Flooded roads with water reaching car bumpers, pass through in 1st or 2nd gear at once

Water Ingress in Muffler... Engine May Stall
Vehicles Flooded Must Be Towed Without Fail

As the rainy season begins, heavy downpours are expected across the country starting this week, requiring special caution when driving through flooded roads.

According to the Korea Insurance Development Institute on the 26th, extra care must be taken when driving on roads flooded by localized heavy rain. This is not only due to the risk of vehicle damage but also because it can potentially lead to casualties.

In particular, when driving through water that has risen to the height of the bumper, it is important to shift to a low gear, such as first or second gear, in advance and pass through in one go. Changing gears or stopping midway is dangerous because water can enter the muffler and cause the engine to stall.

After passing through a puddle, it is essential to check the brake performance. While it is recommended to avoid puddles if possible, if you must pass through, shift to first or second gear and proceed at a speed of 10 to 20 km/h.

Vehicles are submerged in water on a road in Cheonan-si, Chungnam, which was flooded due to heavy rain in 2020. [Image source=Yonhap News]

After passing through, it is advisable to drive slowly and lightly apply the brakes several times to dry the wet brake lining and ensure the brakes perform at 100%. Also, if the vehicle has been submerged, never start the engine.

If the car has stopped in water or is parked, do not start the engine or touch any other devices; immediately contact your insurance company for towing. Starting the engine in a submerged vehicle can cause water to enter engine components, leading to more severe damage.

For submerged vehicles, the engine and surrounding parts must be completely disassembled and cleaned at an auto repair shop before driving again.

There are also ways to obtain information related to vehicle flood damage through insurance companies. Major insurers such as Samsung Fire & Marine Insurance, DB Insurance, Hyundai Marine & Fire Insurance, Meritz Fire & Marine Insurance, KB Insurance, and Lotte Insurance provide customers with such precautions via their social media channels and text messages ahead of the peak rainy season.