Flood Damage and Car Repair

The devastating impact to the Tampa Bay area caused by Milton and Helene has touched us all, and we are heartbroken for our friends, families and neighbors affected by these events.

Since 1895, Ferman Motor Car Company has stood ready to assist our valued guests. As the waters recede and power is restored, vehicle owners may be wondering how to handle cars and trucks that saw water damage. Here are some tips to keep in mind.

If your vehicle needs towing, please contact a Ferman Towing Partner for assistance.

Stepp's Towing - 800-330-8651 - serves the Tampa Bay area

Pasco Towing - 727-849-7651 - serves Pasco and North Pinellas counties

Crockett's Towing - 813-996-7700 - serves Pasco, Pinellas, Hillsborough and Hernando counties

Please visit www.FermanCollision.com to connect with a Ferman Collision Center near you.

Click to Schedule Vehicle Service at Ferman Ford.

Please contact the dealership to learn about manufacturer programs that may be available to assist with vehicle replacement.

Do not attempt to drive or recharge electric vehicles that could have been exposed to flooding. Lithium batteries exposed to water can ignite and cause a dangerous situation. Have the vehicle assessed by a professional before starting, charging or moving the vehicle.

Photograph any signs of a waterline on the exterior and interior of the vehicle to document the level where water reached. Look for sediment marks on door jams and exterior panels.

 

When possible, leave doors and windows open. Add a fan to circulate air, and if possible, use a wet/dry vacuum to clean carpets and seats to help limit mold issues. 

Some vehicles may require a flatbed tow truck to move. Describe your vehicle to your towing provider in detail so the proper recovery truck can be dispatched to you.

Unfortunately, natural disasters tend to attract predatory or unlicensed individuals. Use a reputable towing firm - ideally one of Ferman's Towing Partners, or one you have used in the past and has an established reputation.

Vehicles that successfully dry out may still see substantial damage develop over time as salt water corrodes metal and electronics. Vehicles that work now may see issues after several weeks or months.

Before having a vehicle towed, remember to retrieve electronic toll cards that you can transfer to another vehicle. Additionally, retrieve any insurance or title documents, garage door clickers, subdivision access stickers and other personal items before turning over the car for towing or maintenance.