After Tropical Storm Debby over the weekend, local auto shops and mechanics tell NBC2 News that they are experiencing an uptick in flooded vehicles.
"When it's raining, like it is, you should be cautious and drive at a minimum. If you see any kind of black water, don't drive into it, or at least wait for somebody else to drive through it first so you can get a gauge on how deep it is, because even a couple inches of water can make a huge difference on a car," said Michael Warren, the owner of Windermere Sustainable Car Care near the Naples Airport.
Collier County warns that just a few inches of rainwater can inundate cars and leave you stranded in the middle of the road.
"The electronics, these cars are rolling computers nowadays. So, water really affects it. It'd be like putting your laptop at the house in water. You might be able to dry it out with some rice, but after that, it may not work like it worked before," Warren said.
Multiple customers came into the East Naples shop off of Domestic Avenue during NBC2's visit, to hopefully get positive news on their vehicles.
"I started driving, and then I couldn't see the road. The water was up, probably midway through my door. I was in a position where I didn't know if I should stop, and kind of risk being abandoned. Or if I should push through. So I pushed through, and unfortunately, I created some damage to my car," said Alison Lovingood, of Naples.
If your car is waterlogged, experts warn to stay in your vehicle and get a tow truck as soon as possible.
"Most of the time, unfortunately, when you've run through water, it's the end of the car," Warren said.