-
1. AVOID ENGINE START-UP1. AVOID ENGINE START-UP
-
2. CARRY RIGHT TOOLS2. CARRY RIGHT TOOLS
-
3. DOCUMENT THE DAMAGE3. DOCUMENT THE DAMAGE
-
4. REMOVE & EVALUATE FLOOR MATS4. REMOVE & EVALUATE FLOOR MATS
-
5. CHECK AIR FILTER5. CHECK AIR FILTER
-
6. INSPECT ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS & ACCESSORIES6. INSPECT ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS & ACCESSORIES
-
7. VENTILATE & DRY OUT7. VENTILATE & DRY OUT
-
8. MONITOR FOR RUST8. MONITOR FOR RUST
-
9. PROFESSIONAL DEODORIZING9. PROFESSIONAL DEODORIZING
-
10. ASSES WATER LEVELS10. ASSES WATER LEVELS
-
11. CHECK OIL & FLOOD CONTAMINATION11. CHECK OIL & FLOOD CONTAMINATION
-
12. INSPECT FUEL SYSYTEM12. INSPECT FUEL SYSYTEM
-
13. CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM13. CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM
-
14. EVALUATE SUSPENSION & WHEEL BEARINGS14. EVALUATE SUSPENSION & WHEEL BEARINGS
-
15. GET PROFESSIONAL UNDERCARRIGE INSPECTION15. GET PROFESSIONAL UNDERCARRIGE INSPECTION
-
16. BEAWARE OF HIDDEN DAMAGE16. BEAWARE OF HIDDEN DAMAGE
-
17. CKECK SALTWATER DAMAGE17. CKECK SALTWATER DAMAGE
-
18. CHECK ELECTRONIC18. CHECK ELECTRONIC
-
19. CHECK AC SYSTEM19. CHECK AC SYSTEM
After May 2024’s devastating floods, the upcoming rainy season poses significant challenges for car owners in Dubai.
What if your car gets flooded in the rain?
The above question is bothering everyone. Before May 2024, Dubai residents rarely worried about rain.
As the rainy season is relatively shorter here. Rain gods have been a little partial towards the gulf region, especially Dubai. Sand storms are common but a rainstorm is rarely experienced here. The less exposure to cloudy weather is the reason people in Dubai would like to avoid driving in the rain. Because, when your car gets flooded in the rain, it’s not easy to unflood it.
When it comes to rain, a slight drizzle makes everyone happy. But when a few drops, turn into a rainstorm that is definitely a nightmare for Dubai people. Especially when you own a few classy luxury cars and often enjoy driving and off roading in Dubai. If your car gets flooded in the rain, it may take months to repair it. Last time, some cars were still stuck in garages even 3 months after the floods.
A city like Dubai with world class tourism & infrastructure, cannot afford a rainstorm again. Floods are really challenging to overcome. Bringing chaos & trouble everywhere. The dynamic & lively city coming to a halt, affects every local, visitor & tourists. This is exactly what happened in the May 2024 floods. Those floods that disrupted normal life in Dubai, may have been caused due to cloud seeding. CNBC have reported that UAE is using cloud seeding tech to make it rain. In the 1990s, the UAE introduced a rain enhancement methodology called cloud seeding. Even a Forbes writer debated whether May 2024’s floods were caused by cloud seeding in this article here.
Last May’s floods caused endless problems, especially for car owners. Therefore, everyone should be prepared to deal if your car gets flooded in the rain this season. Plan your routes as traffic and congestion would be a major problem. Keep your car well-maintained to avoid engine failures and breakdowns. But the most dreadful problem is if your gets flooded in the rain. If that happens, you’ll be watching helplessly as the water enters your car, drowning your car in floods and you in worry.
The rarity of rainfall often leaves Dubai drivers unprepared. So here’s a step-by-step guide if your car gets flooded in the rain.
1. AVOID ENGINE START-UP
Are you ready to tackle the problem if your car gets flooded in rain?
Expecting a roaring yes! from each one of you.
But we hope this rainy season brings you joy and relief rather than challenges. However, you must be prepared to drive safely, take steps to protect your car & be ready if your gets flooded in the rain.
The first thing you should do if your car gets flooded in the rain is remain calm and avoid panicking. Staying calm would definitely help you to navigate the watery situation. Just relax and carefully observe your car. Check the seats, dashboard, pedals & the interior. Use a flashlight if visibility is low. If your car’s interior or any other critical component is wet, then starting the engine would be a huge mistake. It’s best to assess the situation, evaluate the water level inside the car, & then take the next course of action if your car gets flooded in the rain.
Panic can lead to hasty moves, such as starting the engine prematurely, which can severely damage the pistons, cylinders or the engine.
Once you’ve assessed the situation, follow these steps:
- Get out of the car.
- Avoid moving your car.
- Call a professional mechanic to inspect your car.
- During rainy weather, avoid driving through waterlogged streets and park in elevated areas whenever possible.
- Take any unusual sounds or electrical issues seriously.
Bonus Tip: If water has entered your car, disconnect the battery to prevent electrical shorts and further damage.
Check this old video to see flooded cars in Dubai.
2. CARRY THE RIGHT TOOLS
If water begins to cover the floor mats or reaches the seat level, it’s time to use water removing tools.
In the Dubai rainy season, use the following tools if your car gets flooded in the rain:
- Microfiber towels for drying the seats and upholstery
- Hand pump
- Portable wet / Dry vacuum cleaner with narrow nozzle attachment for carpets and hard-to-reach areas
- Mops
- Dehumidifiers
- Fans
These tools are essential for removing water and thoroughly drying your car’s interior.
Act promptly to prevent mold and mildew growth. Ideally, you should begin removing water within 30 if your car gets flooded in the rain. Gently mop up the water using a towel first. If you experience water level rising above your ankles – or rising more, it’s safer to exit your car.
Safety tip: Avoid using electric tools in standing water.
Bonus tip: Always check the engine compartment first, and then the dashboard, infotainment system & other electrical systems.
Pro tip: Only professional cleaning can save your car from any major water issues.
3. DOCUMENT THE DAMAGE
If your car suffers damage due to heavy rain and flooding in Dubai, please document the damage before initiating the cleaning process.
Documenting the damage if your car gets flooded in the rain is essential for filing insurance or warranty claims.
Review your car’s insurance policy to know if it includes coverage for seasonal damage. The insurance claim process is easy in Dubai, and other emirates. Just visit the Dubai Police website or app.
Dealing with water damage can be frustrating. Anyone would be desperate to get rid of the water as soon as possible. However, this may take longer than expected. In the meantime, take a few snaps of your car’s interior and every area flooded by water. Click photos of seats, carpets, the dashboard, and the engine compartment. Capture clear and detailed images or videos. Share these photos with professionals or insurance agents and ask them about insurance claims if your car gets flooded in rain.
| Condition | Status |
|---|---|
| Photos are clear | Accepted |
| Photos are not clear | Rejected |
| Photos have accurate timestamps | Accepted |
| Photos with inaccurate timestamps | Rejected |
| Damage documented after cleanup | Rejected |
| Photos are incomplete or missing key areas | Rejected |
4. REMOVE AND EVALUATE FLOOR MATS
Water can damage both the exterior and interior if your car gets flooded in the rain, but a wet interior is a bigger problem.
Any vehicle’s exterior can combat water exposure with minimal issues, a damp interior can lead to mold, bad odors, and long-term damage to the upholstery and flooring.
At first glance, your car’s floor mats might just look a little wet, and you might think they’ll dry naturally without any issues. But remember, water can penetrate deep into floor mats & form mold and mildew underneath, especially if you’ve driven through waterlogged areas.
So removing and evaluating the floor mats if your car gets flooded in the rain is a important: Read the following to know how:
- First remove the floor mats.
- Properly check & evaluate them.
- Carefully Inspect for water absorption.
- Never leave them wet.
- Make sure to hang them to dry completely.
- Use detergent or shampoo to remove embedded dirt and odors
- Any mold and mildew forming underneath would be dangerous. So make sure they are fully dry.
After fully drying the floor mats, reinstall them to keep your car’s interior fresh and clean.
5. CHECK AIR FILTER
Like humans, a car’s engine too needs clean air to function optimally.
Air filter in your car cleans the air before it enters the car cabin & engine. It manages the air quality and quantity. Effectively keeping away dirt, dust, insects, water, debris that clog the engine & lead to breakdowns.
It’s important to check your car’s air filter if your car gets flooded after the rains to see if it’s wet. Here’s why:
- Wet filters can become clogged or lose their ability to filter air properly
- Wet filters reduce engine efficiency
- Dust & dirt may enter the engine through wet filter, damaging the engine
- Wet filters are less effective in protecting the engine
- Wet air filter may block the airflow to the engine, affecting both performance and fuel efficiency
How to Check the Air Filter if your car gets flooded:
- Air filter is usually located near the engine
- It is typically a rectangular or round box with a latch or screws
- Open the car’s hood and locate the air filter box
- Remove it
- Check for any damages
- Clean or replace it
Pro tip: Inspect the air filter more frequently in the rainy season.
Bonus tip: Use a High-Quality Filter.
6. INSPECT ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS & ACCESSORIES
Electrical systems & accessories in any car are highly sensitive to water.
If your car gets flooded in similar floods like May 2024, it can cause significant damage to your car’s electrical systems and accessories.
Water, moisture and debris are a deadly combo for your car’s electronics. Fuse box, wiring, connectors, headlights, windshield wipers, interior lights, infotainment systems etc may stop working if your car gets flooded.
Though Modern cars have complex yet strong electrical circuits, water exposure can cause these circuits to short. A car’s electrical system needs these electrical circuits to function optimally.
If your car gets flooded, the floodwater can lead to short circuits or complete failure of electrical components. Therefore, you should regularly inspect your car’s electrical components during the rainy season.
Mohammed Haseeb, Owner of Al Qalib Garage in Sharjah Industrial Area 17, said that they had many cars repaired in the last two days, which were damaged by the rain. Many came to us with problems in their electrical circuit. When the car goes through a puddle, it may cause a short circuit if the wires are cut or not joined,” said Haseeb.”
Caution: Faulty electrical components can compromise car safety features like airbags, braking systems, and sensors etc
Bonus tip: Seek Professional Help to Examine Your Car’s Electrical System and Accessories if your car gets flooded in the rain.
7. VENTILATE AND DRY OUT
While your car’s exterior escapes the rain water with minor issues, it’s the interior that suffers the most if your car gets flooded in the rain.
Common problems that grip your car’s interior in the rainy season are plenty. However, unpleasant odors, mold growth and persistent dampness are some of the worst ones.
If not quickly ventilated & dried, the rain water may rapidly seep into the car’s upholstery, carpets, and seats, encouraging growth of bacteria, mold, and mildew in the entire interior.
Your car’s interior must be completely dry before you can drive again. How to ventilate and dry if your car gets flooded:
- Park the car in a secure location
- Open the windows
- Turn on the car’s AC
- First use a towel or a cloth to dry the interior
- Use vacuum or a fan
- Use dehumidifiers
- Sun dry the car
- Use professional deodorizing services to eliminate odors
8. MONITOR FOR RUST
Rust can lower the resale value of your car.
A well-maintained car has a shiny exterior & a spotless interior. However, preserving your car’s aesthetics if your car gets flooded is challenging.
When rainwater comes into contact with the car’s paint, it can cause the paint to bubble or discolor. If left unchecked, the discolored areas can eventually lead to rust formation.
If your car gets flooded, rust can develop around the doors, windows, sunroof, carpets, seats, upholstery, trunk, undercarriage, wheel wells, and parts exposed to rainwater. Always keep an eye on your car & spot any signs of rust, especially in hard-to-see areas.
Tips for preventing your car from rust:
- Regularly washing & waxing your car
- Applying a rust-resistant undercoating or sealant
- Immediately repair any paint chips or scratches
- See professional help if your car gets flooded to quickly get rid of the water and wetness.
9. PROFESSIONAL DEODORIZING
A fresh and pleasant smell in the car can enhance the overall driving experience.
But if your car gets flooded or exposed to rain in Dubai, a smelly odor can develop in the interior which may be suffocating. If ignored, the odor may become unbearable for you to stay inside for too long.
Only professional deodorizing services can completely eliminate the smelly odor if your car gets flooded. As professionals can:
- Deep clean the upholstery, carpets, seats, & overall interior
- Use air purifiers to remove lingering particles, bacteria, and allergens
- Dehumidify
- Use odor Neutralizers
- Leave your car smelling fresh and sanitized
Go for a trusted, certified provider that uses modern technology for car deodorizing services in Dubai.
10. ASSES WATER LEVELS
When your car gets flooded in the rain, large amounts of water can accumulate in the car.
We hope this never happens to you. And wish you a safe Dubai rainy season.
However, if your car gets flooded, then the first step is to correctly assess the water level in your car. You can diagnose a problem only if you correctly identify it. Pull over a safe spot and check the water level inside the car. If the water level reaches your ankles, then you have to quickly remove the water and dry the interior.
If your car gets flooded, water level can rise quickly. A prompt action with the right tools can save your car. A delayed response may damage the interior, electrical systems and accessories.
11. CHECK FOR OIL AND FLUID CONTAMINATION
Like fuel, pure oil is vital for smooth functioning of the engine.
It plays a critical role in maintaining engine health and ensuring good performance for your car.
When your car gets flooded in the rain, water can sneak into the engine and other components of the car, seriously contaminating oil & other fluids. Once the oil gets impure, following issues can crop up, compromising the smooth functioning of the engine and other components:
- Water in the oil & other fluids reduces lubrication
- Contaminated oil affects transmission & gear shifting
- Contaminated oil in the coolant can lead to serious overheating issues
- Engine damage
- Transmission failure
If your car gets flooded, look for unusual noises, ticking sounds, jerky gear shifts, or any overheating issues that can result from oil & fuel contamination. Check the color & texture of the oil using a dipstick. If you suspect contamination or are unsure, consult a professional mechanic to avoid further damage.
Regularly checking & replacing the oil is essential to protect the engine, improve performance, & extend the lifespan of your car.
12. INSPECT THE FUEL SYSTEM
A car’s engine is its heart, and the fuel its lifeblood.
Both are critical for smooth performance of the car. Engine runs and relies on the fuel supplied. Therefore, watch out for the quality of the fuel used by the engine.
If your car gets flooded in the rain, water can sneak into the fuel system, causing serious engine issues.
Water in the fuel system can cause frustrating problems. Engine misfiring, corrosion, clogged fuel injectors, lubrication issues, combustion problems, fuel pumping issues, & engine damage.
If your car gets flooded, look for issues like difficulty starting, engine sputtering, or decreased performance, leaks, or unusual smells around the fuel system that indicate contaminated fuel system.
Regularly inspect your fuel system after your car gets flooded. Quickly drain and clean the fuel system if you find any issues to prevent long-term damage.
13. CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM
If your car gets flooded, it can seriously compromise the most critical safety feature in your car – Brake system.
Smooth brake system is important for your safety. Water can compromise its effectiveness. Let’s understand how water can impact the braking system of your car.
There is a critical component in the braking system responsible for its smooth functioning – Brake fluid. The braking mechanism is activated only when the brake fluid is transmitted through brake lines. When you press the brake pedal to slow down or stop your car, brake fluid transmits the pressure applied & stops the car.
Due to improper brake fluid levels or contaminated fluid, your brakes may fail to respond effectively, risking yours and others safety on the road. So check the brake system if your car gets flooded in the rain.
14. EVALUATE SUSPENSION AND WHEEL BEARINGS
A car is the most meticulous creation of a man.
Designed to offer a safe, comfortable & joyous ride every time you hit the road. To avoid noisy, bumpy, unsteady, and uncomfortable rides that spoil your driving experience, a proper, smooth suspension & well-maintained bearings are essential.
Suspension connects the wheels to the car & bearings allow the wheels to rotate smoothly. Both suspension & wheel bearings work in tandem. Together they absorb shocks, reduce noise & vibrations, and ensure smoother car handling. If your car gets flooded, water can degrade these two, leading to rough car handling, bumpy ride, & unsteady steering & braking.
If your car gets flooded in the rain, take it to your mechanic to inspect the suspension and wheel bearings quickly.
15. SEEK PROFESSIONAL INSPECTION FOR THE UNDERCARRIAGE
Undercarriage is located beneath the main body of your car.
That is why it’s the most vulnerable yet overlooked part of the car. You can’t see it clearly unless you lift the car.
When your car is flooded in the rain, undercarriage can take the most blows. It’s easily exposed to dirt, water, salt and road debris.
Undercarriage houses key components such as the frame/chassis, suspension, exhaust system, fuel tank, brake lines and components, drive shaft and differential, and wheel bearings. If your car gets flooded, water can damage these overlooked parts. If your car gets flooded in the rain, take it to a trained mechanic to inspect the undercarriage.
16. BEWARE OF HIDDEN DAMAGE
If your car gets flooded, hidden damage after water exposure is possible if some parts remain ignored or improperly checked.
Don’t be surprised if you discover any costly hidden damage after your car gets flooded. Electrical wiring, insulation for under carpets may carry little mold or corrosion. If ignored or unnoticed, these mild corrosion or mold issues can quickly escalate into major hidden issues.
If your car gets flooded, a thorough inspection is essential to uncover any serious hidden damages in your car. Be proactive & ask your mechanic twice about any such issues. Remind him about any hidden issues or damages you observe.
17. LOOK FOR SALTWATER DAMAGE
We hope your car never gets flooded in the rain.
However, if your car gets flooded, then pray it’s normal water, not highly corrosive saltwater.
You have to act fast as saltwater speeds up the corrosion process on metal surfaces, undercarriage, brake lines, and engine components. It can even cause short-circuits due to its conducive nature. Rain due to cloud seeding can be salty as it contains salts like silver iodide, potassium iodide, sodium chloride, or dry ice (solid carbon dioxide), which are then released into the targeted clouds.
If your car gets flooded, prevent saltwater from damaging any component, by completely drying your car’s interior using a vacuum cleaner. Check for salt deposits and residues. Use dehumidifier to remove water or moisture in and around seats, carpets, upholstery, windows etc Rinse undercarriage and wheels with clean water multiple times.
Water in your car is bad, but saltwater is the worst kind of trouble. Be quick & fast to get rid of saltwater.
18. TEST ELECTRONICS AFTER DRYING
Your car’s electronics are its lifeline & soul.
You depend on them. Your engine relies on them. They power your car and it’s every component. So, they deserve extra care from you if your car gets flooded.
Check any electronic device after the drying process is complete. Look for any moisture and wetness before you switch on anything. Dry the interior completely before testing any electrical system, device or connection.
Once your car’s interior is completely dry, carefully check & test all electronic devices and connections to ensure they are functioning properly. Presence of moisture & wetness can cause minor or major issues. If your car gets flooded, they can even lead to failures, short circuits or permanent damages.
19. INSPECT AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM
Your car’s AC Keeps the interior refreshing & cool.
If your car gets flooded, water exposure may reduce the cooling efficiency of the air conditioning system. Mold growth & bacteria may compromise the air quality.
If ignored, the ac may make unusual noises & release a musty and unpleasant smell, making the cabin extremely uncomfortable. Moreover, bad air quality may cause respiratory issues.
If your car gets flooded, don’t let water stay inside your AC for long. Hire a professional to inspect & clean the AC system to keep it efficient, cool and fresh.
Wrap Up - Step-by-Step Guide: What To Do If Your Car Gets Flooded In The Rain
Short drizzles, heavy downpours or rainstorms, Dubai’s rainy season has always been unpredictable. But, if you were in Dubai during the last floods, then you know how challenging it can be, especially if your car gets flooded in Dubai rain. But this time, the government is better prepared to tackle the situation. So, you too should be ready and prepared. Follow this step-by-step guide if your car gets flooded in the rain. Avoid driving in water logged areas. First, never start the engine when your car is flooded, carry the right tools, document the damage for claiming the insurance later, remove & inspect the floor mats, check the air filter, inspect the electrical systems & accessories, ventilate and dry out the car, check any rust, choose a professional deodorizing for your car, assess water levels, check for oil and fluid contamination, inspect fuel system, check brake system, evaluate suspension and bearings, seek professional inspection of undercarriage, beware of hidden damage, look for saltwater damage, test electronics after drying, inspect the air conditioning system, etc
