Tips for vehicles submerged in flood

MANILA — Myrla Mendoza broke into tears when she saw the state of their family car upon return to their home in Barangay Tatalon, Quezon City from the evacuation center. 

It was covered in mud and had a flat tire, after being submerged in floods spawned by typhoon-enhanced monsoon rains last Wednesday.

“Bumabaha kami dito paunti-unti. Pero ito, hindi namin inasahan ‘yung tubig na ganito kalaki…Pati paninda ko nalunod. Wala na…Masakit man sa dibdib, wala na eh,” she said.

Aivan Norbe’s motorcycle also got flooded in the same barangay, even when he placed it on top of a table in the first level of their house.

“Sobrang taas ng baha... Second floor abot na… tuhod na…Dalawang araw nang walang biyahe,” he said.

Aivan’s motorcycle was among the dozens lined up at a repair shop in Quezon City after massive floods swamped parts of Metro Manila and neighboring provinces.

Mechanic Henry Tagle advised those with similar experience as Alvin’s not to attempt to start their motorcycle and disconnect the battery. 

He said floodwater should be drained from the motor parts, while the oil, spark plug, and air filter should be replaced. It would be best to bring the motorcycle to a service center to get checked.

“Sa langis, kapag pinasok ng tubig, ‘pag pinressure nila nang kaki-kick ‘yan… ‘yung balbula, babaluktot, mas malaki ‘yung magagastos nila…Kung basa ang air filter, hindi siya makakahigop nang mabuti ng hangin…. Palyado ang motor. Hindi siya makakatakbo ng maganda…Pwedeng buksan ‘yung drain plug ng makina, o kaya sa gilid, buksan nila ‘yung mga air cleaner para ma-wash out ‘yung tubig,” he said.

Simplicio Mapoy, a chief mechanic at a repair shop, explained why it is important not to attempt to start the car engine after getting flooded.

“Kasi ‘yung computer, baka mag-short circuit…Basa, tapos i-istart mo, masisira talaga… ‘Pag puno ng tubig ang makina, ‘yung mga connecting rod babaluktot,” he said.

Mapoy also advised owners of similar vehicles to disconnect the battery and check the electricals. Dry the interior and drain flood water from the vehicle. 

It is also important to check the engine oil, the fuel system, the air filter, and other fluids. Consult a mechanic for draining the fuel system and fluid change.

The Land Transportation Office, meanwhile, advised motorists that this rainy season, it is best to ensure the vehicle’s tank is full, tires are in good condition, and windshield wipers are working. 

Motorists should keep safe distance from the vehicle ahead, keep the headlights on, and be alert and careful when driving.