Navigating the Treacherous Waters of Flood-Damaged Vehicles

Tropical storms and hurricanes can leave a trail of destruction in their wake, with homes, roads, and thousands of vehicles submerged in floodwaters. Even if you don't live in a flood-prone area, the risk of ending up with a flood-damaged car remains high, potentially costing you thousands of dollars in repair bills. Unscrupulous resellers often try to conceal the damage and sell these vehicles to unsuspecting buyers. This article will guide you through the process of identifying and avoiding flood-damaged cars, ensuring you don't waste your hard-earned money.

Uncovering the Hidden Dangers of Flood-Damaged Vehicles

Spotting the Signs of Water Damage

Certified mechanic Matt Overbeck, owner of Overbeck Auto Services, shares his expertise on how to inspect a used car for signs of flood damage. He emphasizes that you won't typically see anything amiss in the engine bay, as dealers often pressure-wash and shine these areas. Instead, Overbeck suggests focusing your inspection on the interior and other hidden areas.Carefully examining the dashboard, Overbeck looks for signs of mud or rust on the wiring, as well as rust on the gas pedal, which is unusual. He also inspects the carpeting, especially under the seats, for any signs of dampness or debris. In the back of the car, Overbeck lifts the package tray over the spare tire, checking for any evidence of sand or mud, as water can pool in these low-lying areas. Finally, he examines the taillights for any visible moisture, as this can be a telltale sign of water intrusion.

The Nationwide Reach of Flood-Damaged Vehicles

While one might assume that flood-damaged cars are only a concern for those living in coastal regions, the reality is far more widespread. Patrick Olsen, editor-in-chief of CARFAX, explains that scammers often travel to areas affected by flooding, offering cash or other incentives to owners to sell their water-damaged vehicles. These cars are then cleaned up and sold in other parts of the country, where the damage may not be as readily apparent.Olsen cites examples of high numbers of flood-damaged cars being sold in states like Ohio, Utah, Minnesota, and Illinois, where the issue is not as top-of-mind for potential buyers. This underscores the importance of vigilance when purchasing a used car, regardless of your geographic location.

The Lasting Consequences of Flood Damage

According to Matt Overbeck, the electrical problems caused by flood damage can haunt a vehicle for years to come. Modern vehicles can have upwards of 80 computer modules, and if any of these become submerged in water, there is no reliable way to repair them. This means that even if a flood-damaged car appears to be functioning correctly initially, the hidden electrical issues can continue to manifest, leading to costly and frustrating repairs down the line.Overbeck emphasizes that the best course of action is to avoid purchasing a flood-damaged vehicle altogether, as the potential for long-term problems is simply not worth the risk. By being informed and vigilant, you can protect yourself from the financial burden of a flood-damaged car and ensure that your hard-earned money is well-spent.

Navigating the Murky Waters of Flood-Damaged Vehicle Sales

The practice of reselling flood-damaged vehicles is a persistent issue that can have far-reaching consequences for unsuspecting buyers. CARFAX estimates that as many as 89,000 vehicles suffered water damage during the summer flooding events of 2022 alone. This staggering number highlights the scale of the problem and the importance of being a well-informed consumer.Unscrupulous dealers often go to great lengths to conceal the damage, drying out the vehicles, cleaning them up, and then offering them for sale in areas where the flood damage may not be as well-known. This makes it crucial for buyers to be vigilant and to thoroughly inspect any used car they are considering purchasing, regardless of its geographic origin.By understanding the telltale signs of flood damage and the nationwide reach of this issue, consumers can protect themselves from the financial and practical pitfalls of acquiring a flood-damaged vehicle. With the right knowledge and a keen eye, you can navigate the treacherous waters of the used car market and make a purchase that will serve you well for years to come.