When cars are subjected to deep flood, they are oftentimes classified as demolished which means these cars are most likely to end up in salvage yards. But there are soaked cars that find their way to car lots that sell used cars. This is why buyers need to be careful since not every dealer truthfully discloses the true condition of a car, particularly flood damaged ones. Even though a car looks fine and seems to be in good shape, problems may appear after you purchase it. Fortunately, you can still prevent yourself from buying damaged cars and you can even warn your friends and family about it. Here are 8 ways to examine a used car for danger signs.
Sniff through the car
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Are you familiar with the “sniff test”? Well, you just have to literally sniff the car. Find out if the car is flood damaged by sniffing if it has moldy smell. Mildew formation can be a sure indication that the vehicle was subjected to large amount of water. Mold gives out a very unpleasant smell which is a clue for buyers out there. If you smell the mold, then you are looking at a car that is flood damaged. But if you are not sure, stay inside the car long enough and take a good serious sniff. Make sure to shut the windows and doors. Also, do not be deceived by the scent of the air freshener as this may just be covering up the unpleasant odor.
Feel the car
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The sense of touch is also important in order to sense the moisture of the used car. Flood water tends to concentrate in some locations that the dealer may even miss. So make sure to run both your hands on the carpet. Pat the different spots to locate accumulated moisture. If it is possible to peel the carpet back just to check for moisture between the car body and the carpet, do it. Other signs of flood water damage like rust can also be present under the car’s carpet. Open the car’s trunk and feel the carpet in there too. You should also take the spare tire out and feel the material under.
Be keen on corrosion clues
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Spotting corrosion clues is also an effective way to tell if a car was damaged by flood water. Rust and corrosion will continually spread through the car’s materials. These are often noticeable so make sure to look for corrosion inside and outside. If rust is present on door hinges, screws, trunk latches, and hood springs, you surely know these metals had been exposed to water. Thoroughly check the doors and corners. These are areas where rust often occurs.
Scrutinize the fabrics
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Through close inspection, the car’s upholstery may reveal flood cover up which can be quite serious. Take a look at the fabric and see if they have spots and brown stains. The carpet’s quality also provides a clue to the true condition of the car. If the upholstery does not match the other sections of the car or has faded or new patterns than the others, the previous owner or the dealer may have done something to cover up the defective vehicle. Also pay close attention to a loose carpet.
The test drive
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One sure way to know if a car is as durable as a brand new one is to drive it. The electrical system is one crucial part of a vehicle. Make sure to test the car to find out if the electrical system is fully operational. Check if the electrical wires are brittle by looking under the dashboard. If the wires are brittle, the car has possibly been in contact with water. Listen carefully for unexpected sounds when the ignition is on. Also check if smoke starts to appear. All the lights should also be turned on as well as the air conditioning, wipers, and the radio.
Check the car’s oil
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The viscosity of the oil is also an indication of flood damage. Doing an oil check may reveal if a vehicle is flood damaged. If so, the oil should be sticky and has a different color. The air filter should also be checked for water stains.
All the dirty details
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Check the following areas for debris, sand and silt, or even grass: glove compartment, trunk, spare tire, entire area of the dashboard, wheels, wiring, seats and seating tracks, and the engine crevices. If you do find dirt, the car may have been submerged in water.
You could use help
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The experts can never be wrong once they see a flood-damaged vehicle. Remember that a damaged car will cost more money so make sure to thoroughly inspect the vehicle. A mechanic will be able to tell you other specific signs of damage and other telltale clues.
For a more visual look on flood-damaged cars, here’s an FYI video:
If your car has been damaged by flood, it may just mean more costs.