Common problems with flood-damaged vehicles
At this point, you may be wondering why exactly it’s a problem to buy a flood-damaged vehicle — especially if you find one for a great deal. The main problem is that while you think you’re saving money and getting a deal, it’s more likely that you’ll actually end up spending more money on repairs in the long run. As a reporter for Wired explains, “The problems caused by the water will almost certainly persist and eventually resurface.
Chris Basso from Carfax discussed this on MotorWeek, saying, “These cars look great on the surface but it’s not until you get up inside and really check for signs of flood damage can you tell that the car was once under water. That’s why it’s so important to consult the experts like Carfax or a mechanic so they can spot the signs of flood damage which may not be as obvious to the untrained eye.”
To give you a better idea of the risks, here are some of the many areas in which floods can cause damage to a vehicle, resulting in further problems (and costing more money) over time:
- Electrical system.The car’s electrical system may be compromised by floodwater. This critical component affects many other vehicle systems. Morning Call columnist Paul Muschick describes the operation of a flooded car: “Electrical components operate erratically, including power windows, power seats, power locks, sunroof, radio, Bluetooth, lights, windshield wipers, air conditioning, heat and automatic doors.
- Computer system. With flooding, there is a likelihood of vehicle computer problems in the long term. Once water shorts out or damages connections or metallic components of the car’s “brain,” or computer system, a host of other malfunctions can follow.
- Transmission. Water can leak into and contaminate a vehicle’s transmission fluid, causing gear slippage, slow shifting, or other problems with the drivetrain.
- Safety features. Airbags or anti-lock braking systems may not operate optimally after flood damage. This can be caused or compounded by damage to the electrical system.
- Lighting system. Moisture inside the car’s headlights and taillights, turn signals, fog lights, and dashboard and cab dome lights can cause short circuits, fogging, and other lighting problems.
- Windows. Once water permeates the inner mechanics and electronics of vehicle doors, windows may not roll up or down properly. Soaked upholstery in the cab may also cause excessive fogging or condensation on windows.
- Other critical components. According to Consumer Reports, “Water can ruin electronics, lubricants, and mechanical systems.”
- Hidden corrosion. Corrosion of components also can be a sign that a car has been through a flood. Corrosion can cause a significant amount of internal damage in areas such as the battery, engine mounts, and exhaust system; or it can speed up rust of the body and undercarriage.
- Mold and mildew damage. Mold or mildew may grow in the cab upholstery of flood-damaged vehicles, making the cab an unhealthy, enclosed environment for passengers. Additionally, this can cause the vehicle to harbor lingering odors.
Another problem with flood-damaged cars is that the way they’re treated is inconsistent across states. The New York Times reports, “More concerning is the situation that not all states define salvage in the same way. Vehicles that have been in floods but have otherwise little apparent damage may be returned to the road without replacement of some electrical parts.