Prevention is better than cure download the app that shows flood warnings near you. But if it’s too late for that

Wait 24 hours then get access to the car assuming the water level has gone down. This will give the car time to drain or dry out.
If the flooding wasn’t that bad & the water level only went up to the wheels, but not over the center of the wheel or up to zone 1 as seen in the infographic, then you should be good. Perhaps get your underside washed & perhaps still take it to a mechanic for a good checkup.

If your car got submerged above the centerline on the body, or close to the side mirrors or door handles then you should be cautious, as there may be some components & fluids that are compromised.
Any level above zone 1 will need extra care & attention to make sure the car lives to drive another day, but do not start the car or activate any electronics. If your car was completely submerged in water, make sure to use a towing or flatbed service in order to bring it to a mechanic. If the car was only partially submerged, have a trusted mechanic test each of these items.

Engine: 

  1. Drain the fuel tank
  2. Replace the fuel filter
  3. Do a proper oil change 3 times in quick succession
  4. Drain and replace Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) or gear oil
  5. Drain and replace power steering fluid (if applicable)
  6. Drain and replace radiator coolant
  7. Clean and dry air box or air intake
  8. Clean carburetor (if applicable)
  9. Replace or dry air filter

Brakes and suspension

  1. Bleed and replace brake fluid for all sides
  2. Repack all bearings, CV joint, and shaft bearings.

Electronics

  1. Dry out ECU
  2. Dry out all switches
  3. Dry out headlights and taillights
  4. Dry out MAF or O2 sensor
  5. Dry out the gauge cluster
  6. Dry out Audio system and infotainment
  7. Dry out Electric power steering harness

Interior 

  1. Wash carpets
  2. Clean the seats
  3. Detail door sidings
  4. Replace cabin filter
  5. Airconditioning evaporator and clean

There could be more items that you need to take care of after a flood. Make sure to bring your car to a professional for the more advanced work, and just because your car got flooded, doesn’t mean it won’t live to drive another day. As long as you take the necessary precautions such as parking it in a safe place and disconnecting your battery, you should be good, however, if you do get hit by a flood hard, then saving your car should be doable with the right practice and the right help. Just make sure to set aside a budget, or check your insurance policy if it includes acts of god so you don’t suffer too much financially.