Heavy rains in many parts of the country may mean difficult and expensive automotive repairs for owners of flood-damaged vehicles, according to AAA.

A car damaged by floodwater should not be started until a thorough inspection and cleaning is performed, AAA warns.

"In addition to the obvious damage done to upholstery and carpeting, flood water is a corrosive and abrasive mixture of water and dirt that forces its way into every seam and crevice of an automobile," said John Nielsen, director of AAA’s Auto Buying and Auto Repair Network.

If the car has been completely or partially submerged, it may be necessary to disassemble all mechanical parts for thorough cleaning and lubrication.

"Most vulnerable are the engine, transmission, steering and braking system," Nielsen said. "Unless completely removed, dirt and other contaminants can cause premature wear of vital components and shorten the life of the vehicle."

AAA recommends car owners contact their insurance company to determine the extent of coverage before seeking repairs.

Before attempting to start a flood-damaged car, a qualified technician should:

* Inspect all mechanical components, including the engine, transmission, steering system, axles, brake system and fuel system for water contamination.

* Drain floodwater from contaminated mechanical systems and flush with clean water or a solvent, as appropriate.

* Drain and replace all contaminated fluids, such as oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power-steering fluid and anti-freeze.

"The car's electrical system also is vulnerable to the damaging effects of flood water and water-sensitive components may need to be replaced," Nielsen said. "Engine computers and other electronic devices can sometimes be salvaged, but corrosion and oxidation can occur several weeks after the components are cleaned."

There are many parts of the car that are difficult to clean and dry because they are virtually inaccessible. Door locks, window regulators, wiring harnesses, heating and air conditioning components and many small devices are tucked away in hidden spaces. These items may fail at a later date because of contamination by dirty water.

"Total restoration of a flood-damaged car can be as extensive and expensive as restoring a classic car," Nielsen warned. "Compare the value of the vehicle to be restored to the cost of restoration before proceeding with flood-related repairs." (AAA.com)