If you’re considering purchasing a used car, it’s important to be aware of the potential for flood damage. A car that has been flooded can have serious mechanical and electrical problems that may not be immediately apparent.
Typically, a significant number of these flooded vehicles will be classified as statutory write-offs, only permitted for use as parts or scrap metal.
According to WA’s Chief Executive Officer of the Motor Trade Association, Stephen Moir, approximately 20,000 cars have been severely damaged by the flood.
This suggests that over 20,000 flood-damaged cars were declared unusable, or written off as it’s against the law to drive such vehicles on the road.
Driving flooded cars is highly discouraged, and potential used car buyers should exercise caution and thorough inspection before making a purchase.
There are a few things to look for to determine whether or not the car you want to buy has been flooded. This is especially crucial for vehicles from flood-prone locations.
However, to understand better whether the car is flooded or not, a used car inspection is the best possible option to detect flooded cars.
Key Takeaways
- Check for water damage inside the car: water stains, mildew, malfunctioning electrical features can be indicators.
- Inspect the underbody for rust: flood-damaged cars often show rust in areas exposed to water.
- Look for dirt or grit in unusual places: these can be remnants of floodwater and a sign of flooding.
- Pay attention to unusual smells: musty or mouldy odors can indicate water damage.
- Check the car’s electrical system: malfunctioning headlights, turn signals, or radio may suggest flood damage.
Conduct a test drive: assess how the car runs and look for signs of water damage during the drive.
Common Problems Found In Flood-Hit Cars
Among the common problems in flooded cars, electrical system damage is often considered one of the most prevalent issues. Floodwater exposure can cause significant harm to a vehicle’s electrical components, including the wiring, sensors, control modules, and various electronic systems.
The moisture and contaminants in the floodwater can lead to short circuits, corrosion, and malfunctions within the electrical system.
Repairing or replacing damaged electrical components can be a complex and costly task, making it a prevalent concern for flooded vehicles.
Here is a list outlining the potential damages that may occur in cars affected by floods:
- Engine Damage: When water gets into the engine, it can mess up the internal components and even make it impossible for the engine to turn over, which can cause major issues.
- Electrical System Damage: Floodwater can wreak havoc on the electrical systems, causing shorts in the wiring and damaging important components like the vehicle’s computers and sensors.
- Transmission Damage: Water sneaking into the transmission system can really mess with how well it functions and might even lead to a breakdown.
- Brake System Issues: Floodwater can contaminate the brake fluid, making the brakes less effective and potentially dangerous.
- Suspension and Steering Damage: Water can mess with the suspension and steering mechanisms, making the car harder to handle and less safe to drive.
- Fuel System Contamination: When water gets into the fuel tank and lines, it can cause the engine to act up and reduce how far you can go on a tank of gas.
- Interior Damage: Floods can ruin the inside of the car, from the seats and carpeting to the electronics, leading to a nasty smell and potential health risks.
- Corrosion and Rust: Sitting in water for too long can cause the metal parts of the car to rust and weaken, which can be a big problem down the line.
- Mold and Mildew Growth: Water damage can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which is not only smelly but also bad for your health.
- HVAC System Problems: Floods can also mess with the heating and air conditioning, making it hard to control the temperature inside the car and affecting the air quality.
- tyre and Wheel Damage: Water can seep into the tyres and wheels, causing damage and messing with the tyre pressure and balance.
- Fluid Contamination: Floodwaters can contaminate important fluids like oil, coolant, and brake fluid, which can make the car’s systems malfunction and potentially cause damage.
1. Check for Water Damage Inside the Car
If you can see water damage inside the car, that’s another sign that it’s been flooded. Look for water stains on the upholstery, in the trunk, under the carpets, and in the glove compartment. Also, be on the lookout for mildew or mould, which can be a sign of water damage.
Sometimes it becomes apparent to understand that the car has been in a flood and has been damaged. if the car’s electrical features are working partially or not working at all, this may also be an indicator of a flood damaged car.
2. Check for Rust on the Underbody of the Car
Flooded cars are not so easy to trace, but often , the vehicle affected by the flood can be recognised by looking at its underbody. Due to immense measure of water wandering around its underbody, it creates a rust on parts situated in the underbody.
If the car has rust on the underbody, that’s another sign that it may have been flooded. Rust is often caused by water damage, so if you see rust on the underside of the car, be wary.
3. Check for Dirt or Grit in Places Where It Shouldn’t Be
When the vehicle is completely drowned due the flood, the water enters the interior and leaves behind unusual spots in the seats, carpets, dashboard and other related things.
If you find dirt or grit in places where it shouldn’t be, that could be another sign of flood damage. For example, if you find dirt or grit in the trunk, under the carpets, or in the glove compartment, that’s a red flag.
4. Check for Musty or Mouldy Smells
It is quiet challenging to understand whether or not the car is flooded. However, flooded cars can be recognised with its unusual smell arising due to the water covering major areas of the car’s body and interior
If the car has a musty or mouldy smell, that’s another sign of flood damage. Musty or mouldy smells are often caused by water damage, so if you notice this, be wary.
5. Check the Electrical System
The car’s electrical features are more prone to the flood damage. It is obvious that water has the capability to damage the electronics such as the music system, GPS, Air Conditioner and more.
If the car’s electrical system is not working properly, that could be a sign of flood damage. For example, if the headlights are dim, the turn signals are not working, or the radio is not working, that’s a red flag.
6. Take It for a Test Drive
If you’re still not sure if the car has been flooded, take it for a test drive. Pay attention to how the car is running and look for any signs of water damage. If the car is not running properly, or if you notice any water damage, that’s a good sign that the car has been flooded.
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Conclusion
If you’re looking to purchase a used car, it’s important to be aware of the signs that it may have been flooded. Water can cause serious damage to a car’s engine, electrical system, and interior, and it’s important to be aware of these signs to make an informed decision about whether or not to purchase the car.
Some of the signs that a car has been flooded include water damage to the interior, rust on the engine, and a musty smell. If you see any of these signs, it’s important to have a mechanic inspect the car to determine the extent of the damage and see if it’s something that can be repaired.
GPS Vehicle Inspections operates in the Greater Sydney region. We have a team of certified mechanics for used car inspection working throughout Sydney, and we operate most days of the week, including the weekend.
Book a pre-purchase used car inspection in Sydney today!
