Understanding Flood-Damaged Cars

Hi there! I’m Lauren Fix, and I’ve spent quite some time in the automotive world, even being part of the Society of Automotive Engineers. Welcome to Quick Fixes, where we address car-related queries from our readers.

Today, we received a question from Paul in Pennsylvania.

Hi Lauren:

What happens to cars that have been through floods? Should I consider buying one? The prices seem appealing, but might I regret it later?

That’s a really important question, Paul, and honestly, many are uncertain about this topic.

Do you remember hurricanes Rita and Katrina? They led to around 500,000 cars getting flooded. Quite a few of them showed up on the used car market afterwards.

My advice now is similar to what I said back then: avoid buying a car with water damage. Trust me, it’s not worth the gamble.

Why do I say that?

First off, there are no certainties. It doesn’t matter if the car looks brand new; warranties vanish as soon as there’s any water exposure. Manufacturers usually won’t cover it. Besides, your insurance will flag any such damage, even if a test doesn’t catch it initially.

Secondly, water can inflict unseen damage on crucial safety features in your car. We’re talking about airbags, seat belts, and collision warnings. Even if it seems fine at first, water can corrode everything beneath those comfy carpets, putting those safety sensors at risk.

Worse yet, this corrosion might lead to airbags not deploying during an accident, or going off unexpectedly. That’s definitely a concern.

Lastly, consider the health risks tied to flood-damaged cars. If mold or bacteria find their way into the ventilation, you could be inhaling all sorts of nasties. Just think: where exactly was that car submerged? Was it saltwater, or worse, sewer water?

If you suspect your vehicle shows signs of water damage, I’d strongly recommend taking it to a technician certified by ASE. If they spot any issues, walk away. No deal is worth the trouble.

If you don’t have a mechanic at hand, keep an eye out for these signs:

• Strong scents: If you smell heavy perfumes, chances are they’re trying to mask something.
• Odd rust spots: Rust isn’t good anywhere, but unusual locations, such as hood hinges, can hint at serious issues.
• Moisture in the fuse box: Water under the plastic cover indicates flooding.

Another concern is the “washed” title. Some sellers may shift titles around from state to state to cover up flood damage or other issues. Always vet the title, and consider using resources like Carfax to help detect hidden problems.

In the end, it’s best to trust your gut. A flood-damaged car might seem like a steal, but the risks often outweigh any savings.

Have a car-related question? Feel free to drop us a line at getquickfix@pm.me.