Question: I’m considering purchasing a used car and am nervous about previous water damage due to recent flooding. Any tips?
Answer: Cars that have been flooded are notoriously unreliable and it’s a good idea to avoid knowingly purchasing a car that sustained flood damage. Below are some tips for your consideration when checking out a vehicle:
• Examine the vehicle closely. Keep your eye out for any water level lines or watermarks on both the inside and outside of the car.
• Look in the nook and crannies of the vehicle for clues. Water damage and debris will cling in these hard to clean areas.
• Check the upholstery. If the upholstery if newer than the vehicle, that may be a sign of previous water damage. Also look for mismatched upholstery in the vehicle.
• Buyer beware at auctions. Flooded vehicles are often cleaned up and sold at auction events.
• Be wary of individuals who buy and sell cars as a sideline business. It is better to buy from a reputable dealer or an individual that has owned and actually driven the vehicle for an extended period of time.
• Look over the vehicle title closely. Some jurisdictions require that the flood damage be marked on the auto title.
• Vehicle history reports are available from several online providers. The cost is typically around $25 for the report and can provide peace of mind for the buyer.
• Have your trusted mechanic perform a thorough inspection of the vehicle.