Auto repair shops are busy after Wednesday’s flash floods

HOOVER, Ala. (WBRC) – Auto repair shops in our area are busy after cars were caught in Wednesday’s flash floods.

A local mechanic has tips on what to do if your car gets stuck in water.

Edgar Barron of Long-Lewis Ford said they’ve brought in a handful of cars because of the flooding, and he said much of the damage they’re seeing is electrical.

Barron said that in newer cars, some parts of the main computer system and controls sit under the vehicle’s carpet, and if water gets above your door line, it can create major problems.

Water rose waist-deep in parts of Birmingham on Wednesday afternoon.

Barron said problems can range from electrical issues to cars not starting to rust.

And these problems can cost several thousand dollars to fix.

“If left in water for an extended period of time, this water has a greater chance of penetrating inside electrical equipment, i.e. penetrating wires and penetrating connectors. The connectors are supposed to be waterproof, but only for splashing. If water is submerged…or if a connector is submerged in water, it will hold, but not for a long time. If these connectors are submerged in water , then you have problems with rust, problems communicating with computers or modules, and that can lead to big problems,” Barron explained.

Barron recommends taking preventative measures to keep your car out of harm’s way, like keeping an eye on the weather and moving your car to higher ground when wet weather is forecast.

And of course, don’t drive through standing water.

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