Hurricane season impacts millions of Americans every year, bringing flooding and damaging weather, but high water is increasingly becoming a problem for people well beyond hurricane-prone regions. Flood damage is a big concern for vehicle owners, as it can lead to a total loss scenario or extreme repair costs. The good news is that there are steps you can take to protect your vehicle from rising floodwaters. While no solution offers complete protection, it’s often better to make an effort than to hope for the best. Here are some of the best ways to keep your car out of harm’s way.

Car Lifts

Many enthusiasts would love to have a hydraulic lift in their garage, but you don’t have to go all-out to get a product that could potentially save your car during a flood. While they aren’t as stable as an actual lift, you can buy jack stands that are safe, properly rated, and reliable for a few hundred dollars to hold your car at an elevated position. Spending a little more can get you a basic lift setup, and more expensive hydraulic lifts can provide several feet of protection. 

How Much Do Car Lifts Cost?

Costs vary widely across the three lift types and even within each type, depending on the brand and features. Generally, scissor lifts are the most affordable complete systems, followed by 2-post and then 4-post lifts. Pricing ranges from roughly $1,500 to $10,000 or more. Many lifts require additional installation costs. Jack stands are the least expensive alternative.

Home Flood Protection Barriers

These products offer varying degrees of protection and span a wide price range, but some people have found that home flood protection barriers can help prevent or slow flood damage. That said, some of the products available today come with exorbitant price tags, and many require complicated, multi-person installations. There is also a limit to the protection, as deep or fast-flowing water can overwhelm even the most advanced flood barrier system.

Parking Garages

One of the easiest ways to protect your car from flood damage is to park on an upper floor of a covered parking garage. A garage’s solid construction and elevated position can give your car strong protection from the elements. Still, parking garages aren’t always available, and you might be competing for a spot with everyone else in your area. Additionally, there may be expensive parking fees, but they are generally much lower than the headache and costs of replacing or repairing a flood-damaged vehicle. 

Leave the Flood Danger Zone

When all else fails (or you don’t want to spend the money on other measures), moving your car outside of the projected flooding area is the best way to keep it out of harm’s way. Taking your car to another location ensures it stays dry, and you won’t be left worrying or relying on an unfamiliar product to protect it. Retreating to higher ground when you’re looking at a potentially dangerous forecast doesn’t protect your home or other possessions, but it can help put you and your loved ones in a much safer situation.

Always follow evacuation orders issued by local authorities.

Do Flood Protections for Cars Work?

Your mileage may vary. The companies behind these products sometimes make incredible claims, but every flood event is a different beast. You may have great results, but you may also find that the difficulty, costs, and time involved with installing and using a flood-protection system are overwhelming.

Can a Flood-Damaged Car Be Repaired?

How much money are you willing to spend, and are you able to handle potential slow-to-surface issues down the road? Flood-damaged cars can be repaired, and many are, but there can be crippling latent problems with electrical systems, corrosion, and more. The question becomes a little more complicated with rare and expensive vehicles, but the potential problems remain. Finally, it’s worth noting that saltwater can be a death sentence for any vehicle. It’s extremely corrosive and can create problems that even the most experienced mechanic can’t fix.

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The 2026 Genesis G90 is often described as a lower-cost alternative to the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class, but undercutting the establishment is not the most interesting thing about this car. The G90’s real value proposition is its own dichotomy—the interface has the high-contrast sans-serif modernity of an iPhone app, but the driving experience is old-school luxury car. We’re not just talking about smooth and quiet, here. The G90 is plush, plush, plush.

It’s nice to drive, but nobody should be calling this a “driver’s car.” It’s a limo that the driver, too, can enjoy riding in. Consider this: Extremely gentle driving dynamics—that “floating” ultra-smoothness people associate with Boomer-era Cadillacs—and a UI that firmly prioritizes legibility over whimsy, plus a raft of bone-coddling features like push-button-close doors and massagers in every seat.

The Basics

This is a bona fide six-figure flagship, and it looks the part. The design, which hasn’t changed much since its debut a few years ago, has proven pretty timeless, largely thanks to its restraint. It has the strength of presence you want in a big luxury car, without being shouty. A simple word for that: Classy.

The standard-wheelbase G90 measures 207.7 inches, making it quite close in size to the 2026 S-Class (209.5 inches) but noticeably shorter than the 7 Series (212.2 inches). Genesis makes great use of all that space with spectacularly comfortable rear seats that very much hit the transatlantic first-class ambiance you expect in a car like this.

All G90s sport a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 with all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. When you move up from the base model, the powertrain also features a 48V E-Supercharger, bumping horsepower from 375 to 409 while fuel economy drops slightly (21 to 20 mpg in combined driving).

What’s An E-Supercharger?

Genesis has published a fairly detailed explanation of its unique E-Supercharger system. The most important nugget regarding why you’d want this technology is here:

“Typically, a turbocharger uses exhaust gas to spin the turbine following combustion in the engine, which then drives a compressor wheel to compress air into the engine, increasing output. Enhancing the turbocharger’s capacity can increase airflow and ultimately boost maximum output, but this normally leads to longer compression times. Therefore, when the engine is under load or operating at low speeds, it can cause a delay in acceleration or slower throttle response.

“The 48-volt e-supercharger, however, addresses these drawbacks by activating at speeds below 1,750 revolutions per minute. It compresses air behind the compressor wheel and delivers it to the engine, increasing low-end output and reducing turbo lag. When the engine reaches higher revolutions per minute, where the turbochargers alone are adequate for boosting, the air bypasses the e-supercharger and is directly supplied to the engine intake manifold.”

In other words, though the system adds to peak horsepower, its most appreciable benefit is a huge sensation of low-speed thrust that makes it feel very powerful.

Models equipped with the E-Supercharger also get more luxurious features, such as multi-chamber air suspension, rear-wheel steering, larger brakes, and more. The top-of-the-range model we tested, the G90 3.5T E-SC MHEV Prestige Black AWD (yes, that’s the full proper name), adds unique all-black trim, wheels, and light bezels for a brooding, almost ominous appearance.

Driving the 2026 Genesis G90

Settling into the G90’s seats feels like landing on your favorite couch after a full shift at the factory. Pleasure, relief, and a sense of safety wash over you as you push a button and the door swings closed without effort. That takes some getting used to—I kept forgetting that the doors are powered and found myself fighting the mechanism.

The controls are clear and easy to find, and even the steering wheel seems optimized for minimal user resistance—with just two big spokes, you can pretty much hold it however you want.

When you hit the gas and get going, it almost feels like the car’s sitting still while the world moves around it. There’s not really much sensation of speed, but it’s definitely not slow. In a sense, this 5,000-pound vehicle actually feels light. It almost feels like it’s hovering. There is a sport mode; if you boot the gas pedal and steer the wheel like you’re in an ’80s action movie, there’s a whole lot of body roll—it’s much more boat-like than its stiffer German rivals. The car doesn’t reward aggressive driving.

But it does provide effortless acceleration when you want it, and an almost unbelievably smooth ride, even over NYC’s battle-scarred roads. One of the vehicle’s front-facing cameras communicates with the air suspension to mitigate the impact of potholes and speed bumps as much as possible. Genesis calls this party trick “Preview Electronic Control Suspension,” and as far as my butt could tell, it works remarkably well. The G90 also has a surprisingly tight turning radius—made possible by rear-wheel steering that’s active at low speeds.

All this to say: The driving experience is remarkably effortless.

The Highs and Lows

I’ve established pretty clearly that comfort is the big high point here. But design and parking-lot presence are also very strong. The G90’s reserved look is already aging well; this car will undoubtedly still be pretty in a decade. The plushness won’t appeal to everyone—if you’re looking for steering feel and driver engagement, this isn’t your car—but I think Genesis was wise to lean into relaxation with this. There are plenty of high-power, high-stiffness luxury vehicles out there.

Some of the things that bugged me were just a matter of learning the settings. I never did come to enjoy the “push-button close” doors, for example. I found the interior lighting almost universally annoying. Interior ambient light strips reflect on the windshield at night. The rear climate control screen is needlessly bright and way too hard to quickly deactivate. At least the main infotainment screen is mostly elegantly tucked into the dash.

Fuel economy leaves a lot to be desired, especially when compared to rivals. That’s an earnest complaint we’ll revisit in a few paragraphs. A more pedantic observation I couldn’t help making is that the design of the buttons and some interior material choices felt a little more “kid’s toy” than “timeless luxury product.” While the surfaces that matter most (seats, steering wheel) are well-attended to, the wood dash trim and buttons just don’t look or feel as robust as those in my nine-year-old BMW 3 Series. Not a dealbreaker, but I won’t let it go unmentioned.

Rear-Seat Comfort

The G90 is almost better to appreciate from the back-right seat. And it’s very clear that the car was designed mostly for limo duty. There are easy controls to squish the front passenger seat towards the windshield, creating a soft-leather paradise for whoever’s being shuttled.

The rear seats don’t quite lie flat, but they get as close as you’d reasonably want to, and they are just so, damn, comfy. The rear center console, which tucks away if you have to suffer the indignity of having three people on the rear bench, is full of cupholders, chargers, and comfort controls. If you make your driver activate Chauffeur mode, the vehicle’s muted response exaggerates the floating sensation to the point where you pretty much feel like you’re in a high-luxe spaceship.

Fuel Economy

The range-topping Genesis G90 is most directly comparable to the base BMW 7 and Merc S. Compared to those, it uses much more gasoline. Based on these numbers below, it seems pretty clear that Genesis’ E-Supercharger system is more about adding low-speed oomph than improving efficiency. I don’t know if this is a deal-breaker, but if you’re picking a Korean car over Germans purely because you think running costs will be lower, it seems that is not actually the case.

Value and Verdict

The top-spec Prestige Black G90 we test-drove and photographed here lists at $107,895. That’s a lot of money, but it is a rock-solid value compared to other cars on the market. If you’re looking for a modern execution of old-school luxury car priorities, this is it. It’s ultra-comfortable, easy to drive, and delightful to ride in.

Genesis provided The Drive with a seven-day loan of this vehicle for the purpose of writing this review.

2026 Genesis G90 3.5T E-SC MHEV Prestige Black AWD Specs

Base Price (as tested)	$105,750 ($107,895)
Powertrain	3.5 twin-turbo V6 E-SC | 8-speed automatic transmission | all-wheel drive
Horsepower	409 @ 5,800 rpm
Torque	405 lb-ft @ 1,300-4,500 rpm
Seating Capacity	5
Cargo Volume	10.59 cubic feet
Curb Weight	5,150 pounds
EPA Fuel Economy	17 mpg city | 24 highway | 20 combined
Score	8/10

Quick Take

A couch on wheels that hauls ass, and coddles it, too.

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Quick Tips on Exchanging Funds When Selling a Car

• Complete the transaction in a public place, regardless of your payment method.
• Using cash is straightforward but risky, and sales of more than $10,000 require IRS disclosure.
• Digital payment services are convenient, but transaction fees and dollar amount limits might be prohibitive.

Many drivers choose to sell or trade their vehicles to professional dealers, while others prefer to sell privately. If you decide to sell a car on your own, the goal is simple: get paid safely, with funds you can verify.

Depending on the circumstances, the transaction can be stressful and confusing, especially if it’s your first time selling a car. When selecting the best option, consider three things: the sale price, how well you know the buyer, and how quickly you need cleared funds.

We’re outlining common transaction types to ensure the process is smooth and hassle-free. No matter your chosen method, conduct the deal in a public setting for your comfort and safety. Here are the best ways to exchange funds in a car sale.

Quick Decision Guide

• High-dollar amounts and strangers: escrow or an in-branch bank transfer/wire for best fraud protection.
• Mid-dollar: cashier’s/certified check verified at the issuing bank.
• Low-dollar: cash in a public place with bill verification.

Before you take payment

• Meet at a bank lobby or police station safe-exchange location.
• Don’t sign over the title or hand over keys until funds are confirmed.
• Use a bill of sale and keep screenshots and payment confirmation receipts.
• If using a check, verify it directly with the issuing bank. Don’t rely on phone numbers printed on the check.

Cash 

Using cash to buy a car is the simplest way to exchange funds. It’s immediate, but it’s also the riskiest for large amounts — both for personal safety and for counterfeit concerns.

MORE: How to Sell a Car Without a Title

Bank Transfer 

Bank transfers are a secure and efficient way to exchange money in a car sale. They’re best when you want a clear record and bank-level verification, especially for higher prices.

RELATED: How to Sell a Car: 10 Steps for Success

Certified Check 

A certified check is a type of personal check that the issuing bank has verified as payable. It can be a good option — if you verify it before completing the sale.

MORE: Is Now the Time to Buy, Sell, or Trade in a Car?

Cashier’s Check 

A cashier’s check is a check issued from the bank’s account. The buyer must pay the bank the full check amount, plus a service fee. From there, the bank issues a check for the requested amount.

RELATED: How to Sell a Car Online

Escrow Service 

An escrow service holds funds until both parties confirm the deal terms. This is one of the safest options for high-dollar private car sales, especially with strangers.

MORE: Car Title Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Digital Payment Services 

Platforms such as PayPal, Venmo, and Zelle are convenient for everyday transfers. For car sales, the biggest issues are limits, fees, and fraud risks.

Threat Assessment

The above means of exchanging funds have varying degrees of risk. What matters most is who you’re dealing with, where you’re meeting, and whether funds are verified and settled.

What Is a Trusted Exchange?

In this transaction, the seller and buyer are known to one another. Think of it as a friends-or-family transaction. Risk is generally lower, and most options can work with basic precautions.

What Is an Untrusted Exchange?

An untrusted exchange usually occurs between two strangers. This is where verification steps and safer methods are essential.

Peer-to-Peer Marketplace: Private Seller Exchange

When faced with an untrusted exchange, there is a solution. Verified members can sell and buy cars from private sellers with secure transactions using Autotrader’s Private Seller Exchange. Like Kelley Blue Book, Autotrader is a division of Cox Automotive. The streamlined PSX service is a middleman for buyers and sellers, ensuring the transaction remains secure by vetting participants, facilitating fund transfers, and handling the car title. Buyers may use PSX financing options or submit their payment online via ACH, wire transfer, debit, or credit card. Sellers receive payment the same day or the next business day, depending on when the sale is final.

RELATED: 5 Best Ways to Sell a Car

Sales Tax on Private Car Sales

Who pays sales tax when selling a car privately? The person buying the vehicle. The buyer is responsible for applicable sales tax on a private car sale. It’s typically collected when the vehicle is registered. Consult your tax laws or seek counsel from a tax professional if you need clarification on how this applies to your unique situation.

Get It in Writing

Whichever method you choose to exchange funds in a private car sale, ensure you get everything in writing. Draft a legitimate bill of sale to protect the buyer and the seller and help prevent future misunderstandings or legal disputes. A written agreement for a private car sale provides peace of mind for both parties, making it easier to proceed with confidence.

Our Take

You can’t prepare for every possibility when it comes to scammers and crooks in a car sale. However, with every layer of precaution you add, you reduce the risk. In an untrusted exchange, don’t take anything for granted. Use methods with verifiable, settled funds — and don’t hand over the title until you have them.

RELATED: 7 Ways to Protect Yourself When Selling a Car Privately

Editor’s Note: We have updated this article since its initial publication.

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