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2000 Saturn - flooding issues - how long to wait before turning on?

My car recently had some problems with the Nor'easter that tore through the area and was sitting in some major water (75%+ of tires covered) for over 24 hours. I drive a 2000 Saturn and today I attempted to dry the carpets as I had a little standing water still in the car primarily in the right rear floor and driver seat area. I'm concerned about serious damage and haven't attempted to turn the car on yet and am wondering about how long to leave it before attempting to start it.

Any ideas/suggestions to determine the amount of damage without turning the car on or how long to wait to let it dry out?

I did try the horn - it sounds tinny and weak, not the usual full throated blare.

Thanks so much! ~becca

Reply to
Thanatos1720
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Pull the oil dipstick. If the level is higher than normal, get the oil changed before starting it.

If the level seems OK, get the oil changed as soon as possible- that is, start it and go to jiffy lube. Have the trans fluid changed as well.

Ask them to look for signs of water.

If the water was not up to the tops of the tires, its likely water did not get into the oil.

There is a some likelyhood that you may get premature wheel-bearing wear, and may have some electrical issues.

Go to the dealer, ask them where the computer in the car is. If its below where the water was, take apart the interior plastic from around it and dry the computer with a blow drier, and drive around for a week with that panel off.

Again, if it was only 75% up the way on the tires, you are most likely in good shape if you can get everything dried out.

Dave

Reply to
spamTHISbrp

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