How to Bail Out a Flooded Car

Heavy rains and flash floods can severely damage any car that is left out in the elements. If a car is the unfortunate victim of flood damage, the first step to salvaging the car is to start bailing the water. Read on to learn how to bail out a flooded car.

Instructions

• 1

  Locate the source of the water. Sit in the car when it is raining. Listen carefully to hear the dripping of water entering the vehicle. If it is not raining, have a friend use a hose to simulate rain. Finding the leak is not always possible, especially if the water is coming up through the floor.

• 2

  Park car on an incline. This will make standing water accumulate in one area of car.

• 3

  Use a bucket or large cup to transfer standing water from the inside of the car to the ground outside. Remove as much standing water as possible.

• 4

  Remove carpets from car. Hang them on a clothesline to dry. It may be necessary to apply a fabric refresher spray to totally remove the musty odor.

• 5

  Bail out any water that is now visible. Use old towels to sop up any liquid on fabric that can not be removed by bailing. Leave fresh towels on the floor boards. As your car is driven, water may splash from areas that were hidden from view. Change towels often as they become wet.

• 6

  Check the weather forecast. On a dry, warm day open all the doors on the car and let the car air out. Keep windows cracked at all times (except when it is raining) to keep your car from smelling musty.