How to spot a flood-damaged car when buying a used one

Floodwaters can cause significant mechanical, electrical, and safety issues in vehicles, even if submerged for only a short time. According to Faisal Hasan, vice president of Data Acquisition at U.S. car dealer Carfax, flood-damaged cars are often cleaned up by scammers and sold elsewhere, leaving unsuspecting buyers at risk, as reported by USA Today.

"The real danger is that these cars may look fine and run well for a while, but sooner rather than later, major problems are likely to occur," Chris Basso, spokesman for Carfax, said. "Flooded cars literally rot from the inside out and the damage is often difficult for untrained eyes to detect."

The immediate effects of flood damage are easy to spot: foul or musty odors, rust, discolored interiors, engine smoke, unusual noises, and electrical damage. Over time, water can permanently damage critical components like computers, electrical systems controlling gas pedals, brakes, steering, gear shifts, airbags, and sensors. Corrosion may go unnoticed for months or years, until the vehicle suddenly malfunctions.

A car being towed out of flooded area in Hanoi. Photo by VnExpress/Hoang Giang

Check the title

A flooded car that’s been totaled will be issued a "salvage title." However, some sellers may transport these cars to areas unaffected by the flood and alter the title through a practice called "title washing" to hide the vehicle’s history. Be cautious and request to see the title before making any purchase.

Inspect the dashboard

Examine the dashboard carefully. Ensure all gauges work accurately and check for signs of water damage, as suggested by U.S.'s news site FOX6 News Milwaukee. Look for any indication that the dashboard may have been removed.

Test the electronics

Test the car’s electronic components, including lights, windshield wipers, turn signals, cigarette lighter, radio, heater, and air conditioner. Flex some wires under the dash to check if they bend or crack, as wet wires tend to become brittle when they dry out.

Examine the interior and fabrics

Look under the seats, in the trunk, and the glove compartment for signs of mud, rust, or water damage. Check for open drainage holes, faded upholstery, or musty smells, which are indicators of water exposure. Recently shampooed carpets or mismatched carpeting may signal an attempt to cover up damage. Lift the carpets to check for moisture, rust, or dirt accumulation.

Get a vehicle history report

Always request a vehicle history report from a trusted service. Roger Morris, former communications officer for the National Insurance Crime Bureau, told car dealer Kelley Blue Book that potential buyers should be cautious, especially after floods. "You can clean up a car pretty well, but it’s the two to three months afterward when problems really start to show up."

Do a smell test

Musty or strange odors may indicate past moisture. Be cautious of strong cleaning products or disinfectant scents, as they may signal that the seller is attempting to cover up flood damage. Also, turn on the air conditioner—foul odors can be hard to hide in the vents.

Inspect the engine compartment

Open the hood and look for signs of standing water, mud, or sand around the engine. Gently bend some of the wires to check for brittleness, as wet wires dry out and become fragile.

Get an inspection

Always consider getting a professional inspection before purchasing a used car. A trusted mechanic can identify flood damage that might not be visible to you, providing a detailed condition report of the vehicle.