What to look for in a waterlogged car

As the flood waters recede, some are left wondering if their soaked cars are still safe to drive.

It's not uncommon for local mechanics to see an uptick in business following heavy rains and flooding because unattended cars, during floods, are at risk of being damaged or in some cases totaled.

"If you can, if you have roadside assistance, get it towed," says Ford Rusk, Managing Partner of RMS Auto Care. "If the air filter was not damaged, it's okay to start it, but most people don't check it properly so consider getting it towed to a local shop that you trust."

Rusk also advises to check the floor in your car for moisture.

"The first thing you want to check is how high it got," says Rusk.

If it's just wet, maybe new carpet is all you need. The same also applies to cars whose driver decides to navigate through the flooded roads.

Rusk does caution, though, that it only takes a little bit of water to cause a lot of damage.

"When water has gotten above the seat level, it is typical that the vehicle will be totaled," says Rusk.

If the vehicle was left stranded at any point in the water, you'll want to make sure the air filter did not get wet. If it did, Rusk says the paper will likely have waves in it.

If there is any sort of hesitation, Rusk's advice is to get it towed.