First Things First: Don’t Start the Engine
If your car has been flooded, do NOT attempt to start it, even if the water looks shallow.
Why?
Water entering the engine can cause severe internal damage
Starting the car may worsen the damage and reduce your claim eligibility
Note: Treat the car as immobilised until inspected
Step 1: Document Everything Immediately
Before moving your vehicle, gather as much evidence as possible:
Photos of:
Water level (inside & outside the car)
Surrounding area (flooded street, parking area)
Interior damage (seats, dashboard, flooring)
Videos showing extent of flooding
Timestamp and location details
This documentation is critical for providing cause and extent of damage.
Step 2: Call for Towing (Don’t Drive It)
Arrange for a tow truck to send your car to:
Your insurer’s panel workshop, or
A trusted workshop (depending on your policy)
Driving a flooded car can:
Void parts of your claim
Increase repair costs significantly
Step 3: Inform Your Insurance Company ASAP
Contact your insurer as soon as possible to:
Notify them of the incident
Get guidance on next steps
Confirms workshop and claim process
Some insurers may require:
Claim forms
Photos or videos
Police report (in certain cases)
Step 4: Understand Your Coverage
Flood damage is NOT covered under basic car insurance. You’ll need a Special Perils add-on.
If you have Special Perils:
You can claim for:
Flood damage
Natural disasters (storm, landslide, etc.)
Your payout depends on:
Extent of damage
Repair vs total loss assessment
Step 5: Inspection & Claim Assessment
Your insurer will appoint an adjuster or workshop to:
Inspect the vehicle
Possible Outcomes:
Repairable damage: insurer covers approved repairs
Total loss: payout based on market value (minus excess)
Step 6: Track Your Claim Progress
Stay proactive by:
Following up with you insurer/workshop
Keeping copies of all documents
Confirming approval before repairs begin
Make Flood Situations Less Stressful with Drive+
Floods are unpredictable, but your car ownership experience doesn’t have to be.
PolicyStreet’s Drive+ membership, which helps drivers save on insurance and road tax renewals.
Drive+ tiers start from RM39.90, offering yearly road tax discounts:
Drive+ Lite: Up to RM50 off
Drive+ Standard: Up to RM90 off
Drive+ Premium: Up to RM120 off
Members also benefit from waived road tax processing fees, exclusive discounts via Atome or EPP, and access to additional perks.
Drive+ Membership Tiers and Bateriku Benefits
Beyond the headline savings, Drive+ comes with practical perks that make everyday car ownership easier.
One standout benefit is the RM40 Bateriku voucher you receive with every Drive+ renewal. This voucher can be used for car battery replacements through Bateriku, Malaysia’s on-demand battery service.
Typically, the RM40 value is structured as:
RM20 off a new battery
RM20 trade-in rebate
You can redeem it via the Bateriku app or at selected Bateriku service points. Drive+ vouchers can also be stacked with Bateriku promo codes available on their app or website (such as seasonal campaigns like CUTI40, subject to terms and conditions).
For drivers already reducing their mileage, combining that with smarter renewals helps maximise overall savings.
When it Happens, Remember These Steps
Flood damage can feel overwhelming, but taking the right steps early makes a huge difference. Focus on not starting the engine, documenting everything, and acting quickly with your insurer.
Going forward, having the right coverage, plus added support like Drive+ can save you from major financial stress when the unexpected happens.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I claim insurance if my car is flooded by heavy rain?
Yes, but only if you have Special Perils coverage. Without it, flood damage is not covered.
2. Should I try to start my car after a flood?
No. Starting the engine can cause severe damage and may affect your claim approval.
3. Will I get a full payout if my car is flooded?
It depends. If declared a total loss, you;ll receive the market value of your car (minus excess), not the original purchase price.
