need info quickly

[Norm201]

Hi everyone,

I'll be on this forum hit or miss for the next several weeks. My back injury has worsened and I'm trying to schedule surgery soon. At this point I'm confine to a chair and unable to walk. Use of the computer will be limited.

However, my need from fellow members is for another reason. My daughter is a victim of the eastern PA flood disaster. Last night she was rescued from the 2nd floor of her home. The first floor and all contents are lost. Also she thought her car was going to be washed away. She did manage to move the car to slightly higher ground earlier in the day. She thinks only the rear end of the car took on water. So I'm thinking the muffler and rear hatch area has water in it. My question is if this is true what might she need to do before starting the car?

BTW: it' a Mid 200? year SUV Saturn

Your opinions are appreciated. But I may not be able to respond. Thanks.

[Cobra348]

Sorry to hear of the back ... and if she has web access, allow her to post on your account so we can help her directly? <shrug>

Not familiar with Saturn SUV (is that the Vue?) but I would consider the gas tank perhaps taking on water, thus draining it might be in order. Depends if water got to the filler level and how well sealed things are for fuel sender units. Also, if only a little got in, maybe gas dryer can work ... but I'd be real careful.

[Audrey]

I don't know anything about water damage and cars. Obviously allow it to dry out thoroughly before trying to start it or risk electrical damage.

Norm, I'm sorry to hear that your back has worsened. I'll send thoughts of speedy recovery and comfort your way. Also, I hope your daughter can get her life back soon; such an event is a huge burden with or without insurance or some form of "planning" for the it ahead of time. At least she was rescued and is (I assume) unharmed.

[ragland223]

If water got into the back end of the car you need to pull out the carpets and possibly replace them. Otherwise mildew will happen. Just to be safe she could have the oil in the rear differential replaced in case any water somehow got in. Hopefully that is it.