Drivers across Durham Region faced deep standing water after Wednesday’s intense rain. If your vehicle went through a flooded street, the safest next step depends on how high the water reached and how the vehicle behaved afterward.
If the engine stalled in the water, the cabin took on water, or water reached the lower edge of the doors or engine air intake, do not try to restart the vehicle. Move to a safe place away from traffic and floodwater, then arrange a tow to a qualified repair facility. Restarting an engine that has taken in water can turn a repairable problem into major damage.
First, look for signs that need immediate attention
Before driving again, check for warning lights, unusual engine sounds, a rough idle, loss of power, electrical problems, damp carpet, a musty smell, moisture in exterior lights, or water and debris under the hood. A wet air filter or visible water in the air-intake housing is a reason to leave the engine off and call a mechanic.
Do not crawl under a vehicle at the roadside or touch damaged electrical equipment. If fuel is leaking, smoke is present, or the vehicle is in an unsafe location, keep your distance and call 911.
Check the brakes carefully
Water can temporarily reduce braking performance. Ontario’s Ministry of Transportation advises drivers who have passed through a flooded stretch to test their brakes afterward when it is safe to do so. The vehicle should stop in a straight line and the pedal should feel firm rather than spongy. If the vehicle pulls to one side or the pedal remains soft after the brakes have had time to dry, stop driving and have the vehicle repaired.
Drivers should also watch for vibration, scraping or grinding, and should inspect the tires and wheels for debris or damage hidden by the water.
Document what happened
Take clear photos of the vehicle, the highest visible water line, the cabin, dashboard warnings and any debris or damage. Write down the location and approximate time. If you plan to make a claim, contact your insurer promptly and follow its instructions before authorizing major repairs. Coverage varies by policy; the Insurance Bureau of Canada recommends checking the terms of your own coverage.
Hidden damage can appear later
Even when a vehicle seems normal, water can affect wheel bearings, brakes, fluids, wiring, sensors and control modules. Corrosion may develop after the visible moisture has dried. A professional inspection is especially important if water entered the passenger compartment, reached wiring or electronic modules, or the vehicle showed any warning light or change in performance.
For hybrid and electric vehicles, avoid touching high-voltage components or cables. If water entered the cabin or battery area, have the vehicle towed and assessed by a technician trained for that vehicle.
Do not take the same risk twice
The safest rule is to avoid flooded roads entirely. Water can conceal a washed-out surface or deep hole, and conditions can change quickly. The Province of Ontario advises drivers not to travel through standing or moving floodwater and to get out and seek higher ground if a vehicle begins to flood.
Before heading out, check the Durham Region Traffic Watch map for closures and emergencies. Read our report on Wednesday’s Oshawa road flooding for local context.
This article provides general safety information, not a diagnosis of a specific vehicle. When in doubt, stop driving and arrange a professional inspection. Featured image: original AI-generated illustration by AllAboutDurham.com; it does not depict a specific road or incident.
