Bangkok: Driving through floodwaters is often unavoidable, yet it is crucial to inspect your vehicle afterward to prevent significant safety issues and prolong its lifespan. The "Sure Before Sharing Motor Check" program highlights six critical recommendations for maintaining your vehicle after such an experience.
According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Nopadol Klinthong, an automotive expert from Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi, emphasizes the importance of following these steps to ensure vehicle integrity. The recommendations include inspecting the cabin's interior and various car fluids, with a particular focus on cleaning the cabin to prevent mold, a potential health hazard.
Drivers should pay attention to the condition of engine oil, power steering fluid, and automatic transmission fluid. If engine oil appears milky white, it signals water contamination, necessitating an immediate oil change. Similarly, power steering fluid turning pink indicates water mixture, requiring replacement to avoid pump damage. Automatic transmission fluid contamination is dangerous and recognizable by its pink color, risking transmission failure.
Brake system checks are essential; pressing and releasing the brake repeatedly helps restore normal function. Brake fluid should be changed promptly to avoid moisture contamination, which lowers its boiling point. Moisture-repelling sprays should be used on electrical systems to prevent short circuits, and all vehicle lights must be checked for proper function in a safe area.
Additionally, grease and lubricant at pivot points such as the steering rack and stabilizer linkages should be checked and replenished to maintain vehicle performance.
Experts advise assessing flood depth before driving through water, recommending avoidance of depths between 40-60 cm. If unavoidable, maintaining a constant speed in low gear without sudden acceleration or deceleration is crucial to prevent water intrusion into the engine.