Likel Remedy

[Matheous-2]

My OAP neighbour drove carefully through a flooded tunnel, but was swamped by a fast oncoming vehicle and the engine cut out. He trie d to restart but there was no sound or response from the starter motor, and had to get his Astra towed home! - That was a week ago! Anyone have any remedial suggestions - the car is a 2005 estate model 1.6 engine, I believe.....(Vauxhall)

[mjwman]

It is possible that water was sucked into the cylinders and causing it to jam. I hope not as this would be a costly repair.
I does happen as our next door neighbour suffered a similar fate in similar circumstances. New engine was needed

[Graham-W]

If it has flooded into the cylinders, try pulling the spark plugs out and then see if it will turn over for a while. This may clear the water and, if there is no more damage, it may restart after replacing the plugs.
If it does restart an oil and filter replacement will be needed immediately. Do not drive it to a garage to replace the oil. If the oil has water in it you would destroy the engine.

[Matheous-2]

Thanks for your response guys.....will pass on the possibilities.....

[ChuckFickens]

Does sound like they've hydrauliced the engine. in which case if they are very very lucky Graham's advice is correct.

However, there is a very very good chance they've done serious damage already, bent con rods are the normal result from doing this.

[denis567]

Just a suggestion, but this happened to me a few years ago. Engine was completely ruined (diesel), but because other vehicle caused it, I was able to claim on my insurance, and they paid out. Worth a try.