You will notice several stains and moisture in your vehicle. This is what happens to a truck when water damaged.
The usual cause of water damage in trucks is flooding. Maybe you were in the middle of making deliveries when the weather suddenly became terrible, and rain started pouring down.
You should prioritize your own safety during these circumstances, but just remember that your truck will sustain significant damage.
Signs Of Water Damage In A Truck
Sometimes, people like to buy their vehicles second-hand. It’s an excellent way to save money and resources.
However, there is the risk that you may buy a truck that was exposed to water damage. Be vigilant for these signs:
1. Mismatched truck interior
You may notice that the fabric inside has different shades and textures. These could be signs of previous water damage that the original owners tried to repair.
2. Musty odor
When the truck is exposed to water, the musty smell stays in the interior for a long time. It’s tough to remove, and it’s a sign that there was previous water damage.
3. Moisture in the gauges
The instrument panel is the most challenging part to dry, so some moisture usually gets left behind. This liquid can damage the electronics in your truck and affect its function.
4. Corrosion
Check the inside and outside of your truck. Some rust is natural, but too much is a definite sign of water damage. Look out for the springs, hinges, brackets, and latches, as these are removable parts of your truck.
5. Damp spots and dirt
Sometimes damp spots stay on your truck seat. Pat down these areas to check if there are moist areas.
Debris can also stay in your truck when it’s submerged in water for a long time. Be vigilant for sand and grass deposits in your trunk and engine.
6. Fogging lights
The headlights and taillights usually become foggy with water damage. They are a sure sign your truck has been through a lot.
Common Risks From Water Damage
Whether you experience the flood or not, water damaged trucks can be a considerable risk. Similar to repairing water damaged trailers and cars, trucks can develop some lasting problems from this issue.
The moisture in the instrument panel can fry your electrical system. The damage can also affect the effectiveness of your brakes and airbags.
Your truck can also develop mold if you leave damp spots unattended. These fungi can be dangerous for your health.
What To Do If You Suspect Water Damage
Let’s say you spot some damp spots on your truck; how can you be sure that it’s water damage?
Test-drive the truck in a safe place
Make sure to check all the wires and turn signals when you test your truck. Any faulty part should be repaired.
Take it to a mechanic
Once you find any signs of water damage, take it to a professional for inspection and repair.
Step-By-Step Process On Fixing A Water Damaged Truck Engine
So, do you really need to bring your truck to a mechanic once there’s water damage? Well, that’s the best course of action as they are trained to fix your vehicle.
However, you may be able to fix the truck yourself for minor engine problems. Repairing trucks is similar to repairing ATVs.
Step #1. Get the water out of the engine
Remove all the cables and wirings, then leave them out to dry. Take out the engine covers and dry them with towels.
Step #2. Remove the water with a vacuum
Crank the engine until the piston is high up, then use a shop-vac to suck out all the water. Leave everything to dry before you reassemble your machine.
Remember that you should only try these repairs when there is minimal water damage to your engine. Assess the vehicle first, then bring it to a mechanic if there is severe damage.
Trucks flooded with salt water cannot be repaired, even by professionals. The interior will be too corroded to remedy, and the electronics will short circuit. Sadly, your truck will have to end up in a junkyard.
Will Insurance Cover Water Damage For A Truck?
Imagine you will need to totally refurbish your truck engine and interior; it’s going to be a significant expense. Maybe some insurance policies can help you with the cost?
Luckily, most car insurance policies come with comprehensive coverage. This type covers all damages, excluding collisions.
Comprehensive insurance coverage usually includes the leading causes of water damage. These causes are flooding, leaks, rain, and hail storms.
Remember that this policy doesn’t cover damages resulting from negligence, so if you leave the truck window open during a storm, your policy won’t cover you. Also, this policy doesn’t include temporarily installed parts of the truck, so your removable speakers or GPS aren’t included in your insurance.
Your insurance can also cover a limited amount of damages. Speak with your insurance provider to understand all the details of your policy. You can always ask the help of a lawyer when you have questions about your insurance coverage.
Conclusion
Bad weather and flooding can mess up any vehicle. You can do the proper repairs when you know what happens to a truck when water damaged. Always be vigilant for the signs on your vehicle.