Alright, a few hours ago, my gf made the mistake of driving her 2000 Neon through a flooded intersection. It was pretty deep; the floors of the car have water in them. Hell, even the cupholders have some water in them. The engine is waterlogged, I know that because I tried to start in and it cranked, but the pistons sounded like they were stuck, so I'm guessing the combustion chambers are filled with water.
Now I know I have to find the drain plugs for the interior (or use a shop vac), but what can I do about the engine? She's freaking out because it's her parent's car, and she thinks they're gonna kill her, so if possible, I'd rather try to avoid taking to a mechanic unless it's absolutely necessary. I read somewhere that if you pull the sparkplugs out and start the car, the pistons should clear the water out of the combustion chambers...
HELP ME
Cliffnotes: Engine is waterlogged... Is she completely screwed? Or is there anything I can do without towing it to a mechanic?