Flooded Vehicle - is considered, a vehicle that was damaged by water level raised to seating level. Most flood damaged cars, trucks and SUVs are sent to a salvage yard, but some are cleaned up and put into the auto market where they'll be bought by unsuspecting buyers who think they're getting a great deal.
Flooded water leaves long lasting damage. Electrical and mechanical components will probably fail early. Mold and mildew can also create a serious problem. Any remaining warranty is voided. While buying a used car be on the lookout for these cars even if you don't live in a flooded area, because dishonest people move them around. Here are some tips and points to detect flooded vehicles.
I) Get a Vehicle History Report
Enter the vehicle's VIN number to get a history report. Carfax does a great job of researching a vehicle's background, but a clean slate is not a 100% guarantee that the car or truck hasn't suffered water damage. You can also contact CarSnaps and ask them for advice or request a vehicle background report.
II) Look for Moisture.
Look for moisture within the lights. Check the glove compartment, console and trunk and inspect them for any sign of dampness moisture or the dirt that looks like a leftover from a flood. Look under the hood for accumulated dirt or signs of rust. Check under the seats for signs of moisture.
III) Take a deep Sniff
This can really help in detecting flooded vehicles. Do you smell a sour, mildewy-like odor? Soaked seats, carpeting and other components are difficult to dry in a hurry, so there's plenty of time for mold and mildew to grow, especially if the flood occurred in a hot and humid location.
IV) Look for Mismatched Interior Components
Does the carpeting look brand new or mismatched or too new for the vehicle? Do seat covers seem out of place with the carpeting? Components that don't match-up might have been changed in a hurry after the vehicle was pulled from flood waters.
V) Request free advice from CarSnaps
Contact CarSnaps.com and request free advice from their qualified technicians who are there to help and it is free so there is nothing to lose.
VI) Let Your Technician Examine the Vehicle
Take the vehicle to a technician if possible and ask for a thorough examination. Experienced auto technicians see evidence of flood damage more often than most individuals do, so they know exactly what to look for.
VII) Turn it On and Go for a Drive
Turn the car on and check every electrical system possible, including the exterior and interior lights, the gauges, the clock and the audio system and the dash lights that display air bag and seat belt information. Go for a drive and test electrical components again to make sure they work correctly. 90% of the time you will be able to suspect an electrical problem with flooded vehicle unless it is repaired or electrical parts are not damaged which is very rare though.
Flooded vehicles should be avoided as much as possible even if seller tell you about the manufacturer warranty because warranty voids when a car goes through a flood. If you suspect a flooded vehicle walk away from it. Flooded vehicles are not worth the hassle they provide.
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