As electric vehicles (EVs) hit the mainstream, they are still confronted with unique challenges—one of which is saltwater exposure. Corrosion damage from saltwater can compromise the performance and longevity of electric vehicles.
Here are our 10 tips to avoid saltwater damage to keep your EV in pristine condition. We walk you through ten practical saltwater damage prevention tips —simple steps that add up to powerful protection.
From routine washes to the application of advanced protective coatings, these measures help keep your car running smoothly and safely for all those electric miles ahead. With these precautions, you too can have peace of mind and a longer-lived EV!
This new guide is essential reading for every EV owner out there who wants to protect their investment and ensure strong vehicle performance over the long haul. Check out these tips to protect your EV from saltwater damage right now.
Understanding Saltwater Risks
As has been highlighted by EV manufacturer Rivian, salt water is a serious risk for electric vehicles, causing rapid, catastrophic corrosion of vulnerable components. This corrosion can lead to chronic issues, wreaking havoc on everything from a vehicle’s outer shell to its complex electrical systems.
As EV adoption increases, coastal communities and regions where hurricanes are common are at increased risk, as rapid flooding can inundate EVs, posing safety and operational threats(source).
Electric Vehicles And Flood Threats
Since all-electric vehicles use lithium-ion batteries, which are extremely susceptible to saltwater damage, this is a big concern. EVs are certainly designed to handle some saltwater.
Leave them in contact with floodwaters for too long, and you’ve created conditions for dangerous loss of control and increased risk of crashes. Hurricane Ian in 2022 destroyed thousands of electric vehicles.
In total, reports found 5,000 EVs impacted, with 36 of these electric vehicles igniting due to damaged battery systems. Such incidents are a potent reminder of the risks at play, as EV fires can suddenly flare up after flooding.
Impact On Battery Systems
Saltwater exposure causes battery terminals to corrode, severely impacting battery performance and lifespan. When cells get damaged, they can begin to leak hazardous materials, creating risks to the surrounding environment.
Compromised batteries increase range and efficiency. Fires can occur due to short circuits. One, for example, depicted an EV consuming a garage in a fire following saltwater immersion, emphasizing dangers.
Short Circuit And Fire Hazards
Saltwater can short-circuit electrical systems, increasing the danger of fire. Clear signs of malfunction would include burning smells or warning lights.
Lithium-ion batteries are prone to catching fire if compromised, requiring swift intervention to prevent fire hazards. To avoid these deadly hazards, it’s important to keep electrical components from ever coming into contact with water.
Mechanical Issues From Saltwater Exposure
Saltwater will corrode and degrade mechanical components, undermining performance. Suspension and braking systems are especially vulnerable.
Routine mechanical inspections after flooding are critical to understanding and evaluating mechanical integrity. Taking a proactive approach to a strange noise or tackling a concern is key.
Interior Damage From Saltwater
Saltwater is especially destructive and will corrode any upholstery, electronics, or internal mechanisms within the vehicle. Quickly drying the interior is key to preventing mold and mildew.
Electrical failures of infotainment systems are triggered by water exposure. Thus, keeping the interior clean and restored is incredibly important for comfort and vehicle value.
10 Tips To Protect Your Electric Vehicle From Saltwater Damage
1. Avoid Driving Through Floods
Driving through floodwaters on a regular basis could cause irreparable harm to electric vehicles. Even slight exposure to water may damage the EV’s electrical systems, creating dangerous circumstances.
Avoid charging in direct sunlight when temperatures are high. Stay away from flooded roadways to protect your EV and yourself.
2. Park On Higher Ground
Storms usually mean flooding, so whenever feasible it’s important to charge and park EVs on elevated ground. Knowing safe parking locations, away from flood zones and risks such as falling debris, can avoid damage and loss(source).
Having a hurricane evacuation route laid out in advance is a smart move to protect your vehicle.
3. Use Protective Covers
Invest in a waterproof cover to give your EV extra protection from water damage. These covers need to fit tightly to keep moisture out.
Preventative maintenance, like roof management programs, can make sure they still provide protection against the elements, including the added impacts of extreme storm events and increased precipitation.
4. Regularly Wash And Clean The Vehicle
Salt and other contaminants tend to build up, especially in cavities like wheel wells and undercarriages, so a consistent wash routine is important. You’ll protect their condition by only using cleaning products safe for EVs.
You may want to consider professional detailing to maintain it at its best.
5. Inspect The Battery Compartment
Frequent visual inspection of the battery compartment can identify early signs of corrosion or moisture ingress. Be sure to preserve any seals or gaskets.
This keeps water from penetrating the battery and helps avoid expensive and complicated battery repairs.
6. Seal Vulnerable Areas
Sealing potential entry points for water with weather stripping and sealants before moisture exposure occurs will help keep water out. For long-lasting protection, regularly re-seal these rubber seals.
These can be treated with other waterproofing products for added security.
7. Check Electrical Connections
Regularly inspecting all electrical connections in your electric vehicle is a smart move to prevent costly electrical failures and enhance battery safety. Over time, exposure to moisture, dirt, and even normal wear can cause corrosion or loosen connections. By ensuring these are clean, secure, and in good condition, you can avoid unexpected breakdowns and the hefty repair bills that often follow. Think of it as a small investment of time that pays off by keeping your electric car running smoothly and your wallet intact.
8. Apply Anti-Corrosion Treatments
Applying anti-corrosion sprays to exposed metal surfaces, particularly in areas like the wheel wells, is an effective way to combat rust and corrosion on your electric vehicle. These sprays form a protective barrier against moisture, salt, and dirt, helping to preserve the integrity of your vehicle's metal components. For continued protection, it's important to reapply the spray regularly, especially after washing or when your electric car is exposed to harsh conditions such as road salt, heavy rain, or off-roading. This routine maintenance helps prevent costly rust damage over time.
9. Install Water Detection Sensors
Water detection sensors are a cost-effective solution that can be easily installed in your electric vehicle to alert you to the presence of moisture in critical areas where it shouldn’t be. These sensors provide an early warning, allowing you to take prompt action before any significant damage occurs, especially in the context of saltwater flooding. They enhance your vehicle's security by sending real-time alerts directly to your phone or device, enabling you to address potential issues such as leaks or flooding right away, and protecting your car from costly water-related damage.
10. Follow The Manufacturer's Guidelines
Electric car owners need to adhere to EV manufacturer maintenance guidelines. Understanding warranty coverage for water damage and staying updated with recalls will help people remain safe in their electric vehicles for years to come.
Post-Flood Actions For Electric Vehicle Owners
If your electric vehicle has been flooded due to heavy rains or a devastating storm surge, quick and smart action can make a difference. Here’s a list of immediate safety tips to protect your EV.
Avoid charging the vehicle if it has been submerged.
Avoid parking inside flood-prone areas, or at least 50 feet away from buildings if you must park on-site.
If evacuating, unplug your home charger and keep your vehicles charged to no more than 30% battery capacity.
Inspect the vehicle before any use post-flood.
Assess Damage Immediately
Start by inspecting your EV for visible water damage. This includes checking electrical and mechanical systems and interior components. Document every detail with photos and notes, as these will be invaluable for insurance claims.
Prioritize safety by not operating the vehicle until a full assessment is complete. For example, saltwater can severely increase conductivity, heightening fire risks, as seen with Hurricane Ian’s impact on electric vehicles(source).
Consult Professional Repair Services
This is why professional guidance is so important. Contact certified professionals who specialize in electric vehicle repairs. Talk about the extent of damage and what needs to be repaired or replaced to get your EV back up and running.
Specialized services may be required, particularly if the battery pack or other critical components have been impacted. Knowing repair costs and timelines will allow EV owners to make the best decisions. Repairing an EV after a flood can be complicated and costly.
Document For Insurance Claims
Detailed documentation will be key to any insurance reimbursement. Document everything to the fullest extent. Photographs of damaged or flooded areas strengthen your argument.
Keep all receipts and invoices for post-flood work. Make sure you communicate clearly with your insurance company about any issues related to flooding. Keep in mind, that good documentation will greatly improve the claims process.
Safety Features and Precautions
EVs are designed with several safety features and precautions to reduce concerns about saltwater exposure. Many of these vehicles, for example, have doors and windows that automatically shut when the vehicles are detonated, or battery fires are found, in rare emergencies. These systems are even more critical, as electric vehicles are much more tolerant of flooding.
If they’re submerged for too long, it creates dangerous issues, even fires. Familiarizing yourself with these built-in safety features is key to getting the most use out of your product and keeping yourself safe.
Built-In Safety Mechanisms in EVs
These systems automatically deploy in an emergency to prevent battery fires, providing an essential layer of safety protection.
Water-resistant Seals: Specifically engineered to enhance the waterproofing of electrical components, these seals are a key factor in stopping water intrusion. These keep the battery temperature in check, which is critical for preventing overheating, especially in hot or cold climates.
Understanding these safety systems and the technology behind them is key. Learning how to use them helps ensure that you are prepared to respond in an emergency. This is critical in flood-prone areas where flooding and water ingress are a concern.
Keeping abreast of the latest EV safety technologies will help ensure your EV is as safe as possible.
Additional Precautionary Measures
Having a fire extinguisher in the vehicle can be a lifesaver in case of battery-related incidents. Learning how to exit the vehicle safely during water ingress is vital.
Keep important numbers handy for swift action during crises. Participate in programs to boost your knowledge and preparedness.
When we implement these additional measures, we improve safety. Move your EV to higher ground well ahead of a storm. Unplug it and charge it beforehand to prevent any electrical surge problems.
Because 80% of EVs are powered by lithium-ion batteries that are highly sensitive to saltwater, these steps are vital. The knowledge that fires can reignite, even after they’ve been put out, makes it all the more important that we always remain alert(source).
Insurance And Repair Considerations
Insurance Coverage For Flood Damage
We’re here to help clarify what you need to know about your insurance coverage when it comes to protecting your electric vehicle (EV) from saltwater damage.
Here's a quick rundown of key considerations:
Comprehensive insurance typically covers flood damage. But double-check this with your provider so there aren’t any surprises.
Review your policy regularly to make sure it includes coverage for natural disasters such as flooding. This will better prepare you to discuss coverage limits and any special provisions that may apply to EVs.
Look out for exclusions that may prevent you from getting paid for flood damage. Additionally, not all policies will cover every type of EV-related damage. So, for example, asking your insurer for clarification can help avoid any surprises.
If you reside in a flood-prone area, consider getting extra coverage. For example, Acorn Insurance offers unique EV coverages that can cover the holes standard policies leave behind.
Repair Options And Costs
Flooding causes hidden, complicated, and expensive repairs, even more so for EVs.
Here are some important factors to consider:
The repair process for any flooded EV usually starts with determining the degree of damage to critical components such as the battery pack. Due to the newness of EVs, it’s important to shop around and look for repair services that have experience working with EVs.
Costs can vary significantly. Even if some repairs cost only $60 to $120, extensive damage might lead to a total loss. It’s always a good idea to shop around to get the best rate.
Extensive damage might render the vehicle unrepairable. Consulting with industry professionals can do a great deal to determine whether repair or replacement is the better investment.
Consulting with a skilled mechanic can streamline decision-making. It’s important to inspect your brake fluid regularly. If your home was affected by flooding, having an electrical inspection can help you save money and stay safe.
Conclusion
Saltwater can create a major problem. Protecting your EV is all about being cognizant of these dangers and safeguarding your valuable assets. By following these practical tips laid out here, you can stay ahead of the game and keep your electric vehicle in pristine condition and road-ready. If your vehicle is exposed to flood waters, time is of the essence to prevent further damage and danger to yourself and others. Insurance and repair considerations are other big factors. By staying proactive and informed, you can enjoy all the benefits that come with electric driving – saltwater worry-free!
The steps you take now will ensure your EV is ready for whatever comes next. Read on and learn how to better care for your electric vehicle so you can protect your investment. By reading our tips, you can stay informed and stay ahead of any potential damage. To learn more tips and stay up to date, read some of our latest articles, and help your EV adventure go swimmingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What Risks Does Saltwater Pose To Electric Vehicles?
Saltwater is incredibly corrosive and can easily damage an electric vehicle's battery and electrical systems, increasing the fire risk. Even short exposure can lead to expensive damage and significant safety risks.
2. How Can I Protect My EV From Saltwater Damage?
Tip #1 Keep your electric vehicle as clean and dry as possible. After removing saltwater flooding, wash it regularly with a gentle, eco-friendly soap. Apply protective coatings to vulnerable components and ensure that electric vehicle batteries are well sealed.
3. Are There Any Specific EV Features That Enhance Safety Against Saltwater?
That said, most electric vehicles (EVs) use sealed battery enclosures that include corrosion-resistant materials, enhancing battery safety against saltwater flooding and other environmental risks.
4. What Should I Do If My EV Gets Exposed To Floodwaters?
If your electric vehicle has been submerged in flood water, disconnect the battery immediately. Do NOT turn on the car. Consult a professional to inspect for any potential electric vehicle fires.
5. How Does Insurance Handle Saltwater Damage To EVs?
Insurance policies for electric vehicles can vary significantly. Water damage, especially from devastating storm surges or flood water, is usually covered by comprehensive plans, so it's crucial to double-check the details of your policy.
6. What Precautions Can Reduce Saltwater Exposure?
Do not drive through saltwater flooded areas, especially during heavy rains when the storm surge hits. Car owners should park on higher ground if they have to evacuate to reduce the fire risk from electric vehicle batteries.
7. What Should I Consider When Repairing Saltwater-Damaged EVs?
Find a repair shop that has experience with electric vehicles (EVs) and their battery safety. Pay special attention to the battery and electrical components to ensure proper sealing against moisture from saltwater flooding.
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