Floods can cause significant damage to your property. If the water affects your vehicle, the results could be catastrophic enough that you might consider junking it entirely. While that’s not always the most appealing option, sometimes it’s the best choice for your safety and budget. Here’s what you should know about bringing your flooded car to a salvage yard.

How Water Can Destroy a Vehicle

Once floodwater makes its way inside a car, the possibilities for damage run rampant. It’s not always limited to visible signs, like soaked upholsteries and wet carpets that lead to mold growth. Moisture can infiltrate the car’s electronic and mechanical components, causing features like the stereo system, windows, and sunroofs to fail.

Another reason you may consider bringing your car to a salvage yard is the sheer volume of rust that develops. You may see it beneath the hood, on the doors, and inside the trunk. This oxidation ruins the appearance of your car and can be expensive to remove.

Also, contaminants like mud and grime could be caught in brackets or beneath panels. There could also be water droplets on the oil dipstick, which means water has infiltrated the engine. This could cause corrosion and damage the cylinders.

Why You Should Sell a Totaled Car

Most states have a ratio that determines whether the car is considered a complete loss. In Texas, that threshold is 100%, which means the cost of repairs must surpass the total amount of the car’s value.

When the car’s not repairable, it’s a risk to drive. The water damage can cause problems with the airbags or brakes. Even if it’s no longer operational, you can still sell it to a salvage yard. It’s the safest option, and you can earn some money to help pay for a new car.

Contact Roadrunner Recycling in San Marcos, TX, if a recent flood has ruined your car. The salvage yard is happy to take the unsafe or unsightly vehicle off your hands. They’ll even retrieve it so you don’t have to worry about transporting it to them. The recycling center also accepts aluminum, iron, stainless steel, and other metals for repurposing. Visit the website for more information or call (512) 353-4511 if you have a car to sell.