Car Checkup After Driving Through Water or a Flooded Wash in Globe, AZ

If you've driven your vehicle through water or a flooded wash in Globe, AZ, it's wise to get it inspected by professionals. Water can cause significant damage to various components, from your brakes to your electrical system and even contaminate vital fluids. Both our Horne Nissan and Horne Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram service departments are here to help ensure your vehicle is safe and sound after such an event.

Never Drive into Moving Water

First and foremost, a critical safety warning for drivers in Gila County: never drive into moving water. Monsoon washes can be deceptively powerful, and even shallow moving water can sweep a vehicle away. It's always safer to find an alternate route or wait for the water to recede. Your safety and the integrity of your vehicle are paramount.

Immediate Checks After a Water Crossing

After crossing standing water or a shallow, slow-moving wash, there are a few immediate checks you can make. Test your brakes by driving slowly and applying them gently several times to help dry them out. Listen for any unusual noises, feel for changes in steering, and check your dashboard for warning lights. If anything seems off, proceed with caution and plan for a professional inspection.

Potential Areas of Concern

Driving through water can affect multiple systems in your vehicle. Our certified technicians at both Horne Nissan and Horne Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram are experienced in diagnosing and repairing issues related to water exposure. Here are the key areas we focus on during a post-water crossing inspection:

• Brakes: Water can reduce braking effectiveness and cause rust on rotors and calipers, leading to premature wear or unsafe braking conditions. We'll check for proper function and any damage.
• Air Intake System: If water enters your engine's air intake, it can cause severe internal engine damage (hydro-locking). This is a critical check, as the repair can be extensive.
• Differential and Transfer Case Fluid Contamination: Water can seep into the differential and transfer case, contaminating the lubricating fluids. Contaminated fluid can lead to accelerated wear of gears and bearings. We'll inspect these fluids for milky appearance or other signs of contamination and recommend replacement if necessary.
• Electrical System: Modern vehicles are packed with sensitive electronics. Water can short-circuit wiring, damage sensors, and affect various modules, leading to dashboard warning lights, malfunctioning accessories, or even a non-starting vehicle.
• Interior: Water in the cabin can lead to mold and mildew growth, unpleasant odors, and damage to upholstery, carpets, and underlying electronics. We can assess the extent of the water intrusion and recommend cleaning or repairs to prevent long-term issues.

Why a Professional Inspection is Crucial

Many of the potential problems caused by driving through water aren't immediately obvious. Fluid contamination, slow electrical corrosion, or hidden damage to undercarriage components might not show symptoms until much later, potentially leading to more costly repairs down the line. A thorough inspection by our technicians can identify these issues early, saving you time and money.

Schedule Your Service in Globe, AZ

Both our service departments are ready to assist you. For Horne Nissan, you can schedule your service by filling out our service request form on the site or by calling us at 928-793-5581. For Horne Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram (Mopar), you can schedule service using our convenient online scheduling tool or by calling 928-793-5581. Our service departments are open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Remember, regular maintenance and prompt attention to potential issues after events like driving through water are key to maintaining your vehicle's reliability and longevity. We are located at 2046 E Highway 60, Globe, AZ 85501, and our team is committed to providing excellent service, as highlighted by customers like C. Joy, who noted, "Service Manager Nikki kept me updated on the repairs of my vehicle, Technician Mike diagnosed the problem and back on the road in no time."

We look forward to helping you keep your vehicle in top condition. Feel free to browse our new inventory or used inventory if you're considering an upgrade, or check out our current specials and rebates for great deals.