Of greater concern is the estimated high cost of repairs, especially for cars with many electronic systems. Workshops say it may cost anywhere between RM20,000 and RM40,000, depending on the model and extent of damage.
UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd body and paint manager Hari Vairavan Nathan said his branch in Shah Alam had checked nearly 50 cars affected by the floods so far.
“We are expecting more over the next few weeks as the floods have not subsided in some places,” he told FMT.
He said the costs of repairs may come up to between RM20,000 to RM40,000 each, depending on the damage and the vehicle’s model.
“Most cars these days are equipped with a lot of electronic components. If they are submerged or contaminated by water, they cannot be serviced. They have to be replaced,” he added.
Hari, who has been with Toyota for 12 years, said that if the victims cannot afford to get to a workshop, they can self-check at home by inspecting the air filter and engine oil for any signs of water contamination.
To reduce the victims’ burden, Hari said his company would be providing free towing services for all Toyota vehicles affected by the flood.
“We are also giving a 25% discount on the total cost of repairs. We will be communicating with banks to provide easy payment plans with zero interest for affected customers,” he added.
Hangar 5, a smaller car repair and maintenance shop in Shah Alam, says they cannot afford to give discounts.
The workshop is currently charging a base price of RM700 to repair vehicles that were not badly affected by the floods.
“But depending on the extent of the damage and the vehicle model, the price can go up to between RM10,000 and RM15,000,” said Hangar 5 co-owner Karthik Palan.
“It’s a massive job because we need to dismantle everything if a car has been completely submerged inside muddy waters. A lot of the electrical components won’t work,” he told FMT.
Ultimately, both Hari and Karthik advised all vehicle owners to add “special perils” to their vehicle insurance as it covers natural disasters.