Flood-Damaged Vehicles
After a major storm, flood-damaged cars often get "title washed" and shipped across the country, looking shiny on the outside while rotting from the inside out.
Protect yourself from purchasing a flood-damaged vehicle. Learn how to check vehicle history and spot the warning signs of water damage.
Important: Unscrupulous salvage yards and auto dealers often try to conceal flood damage and sell vehicles for much more than they are worth. These vehicles may turn up in all 50 states with titles from any state, and may not be listed as damaged by any service.
Vehicle History Checks
Before you even visit the car, use the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to check its history. While not every flood is reported, these tools are your first line of defense.
Tips to Spot Flood Damage
While there is no sure way to detect vehicle flood damage, the National Automobile Dealers Association offers inspection tips that may be used to detect significant water damage. At a minimum, a prospective buyer should:
- Follow your nose: Does the car smell musty or like heavy mold? Conversely, be wary of excessive air freshener or “new car” scent in an older vehicle—it might be masking a smell.
- Feel the carpets: Check for dampness or evidence of recent shampooing. Pull back the carpet in the footwells or trunk to look for silt, grit, or water stains.
- Inspect the upholstery: Look for mismatched fabric colors or fading on door panels that could indicate water submersion.
| Area to Check : | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Dashboard | Look under the dash for dried mud, residue, or brittle wiring |
| Hardware | Check for rust on unpainted screws in the console or under the seats. |
| Engine Bay | Search for grit in alternator crevices, starter motors, and power steering pumps. |
| Electrical | Look for “green” corrosion on wires or rusted connectors. |
| Underneath | Inspect the undercarriage for excessive rust or flaking metal that seems unusual for the car’s age |
Important: While these inspection suggestions will not detect flood damage in every case, they do provide some information that may help to protect consumers from purchasing a vehicle damaged by water or flood. Always have a trusted mechanic perform a “Pre-Purchase Inspection” (PPI) before you buy.