July 19, 2019

If you live near water, there is always a possibility that the vehicle you are looking to purchase may have seen flood damage. There are a few tell-tale signs to look for that can help you easily identify a flood damaged vehicle, even if the seller has done there utmost to conceal it from you.

Here are some signs and symptoms of a flood damaged vehicle:

Straight-line stains

Lets face it, straight-line stains do not get there from a beverage spill. The spill of a beverage in a car would be messy, not like the neat lines created from a vehicle that has been submerged in water. If the stain is straight, there is  a good chance of flood damage.

Gritty sounding seatbelts

If you hear grinding or feel seatbelts sticking, there may be sand or mud stuck in the mechanism. The car was likely flooded at one stage which makes it harder to pull the seat belt and fasten it.

Musty smell

Is the car a bit on the nose? Is there a funny musty smell? This musty smell can be the result of moisture being trapped in the vehicle and the smell can be difficult to remove completely. By turning on the air vents you can check to see what smell comes from within the ventilation system.

Rust on seat rails

Make sure you slide the seats of the car back to check for rust on the rails. Rust will form on the rails if the vehicle has been sumberged in water for an extended period of time.

Carpet board warping

Check the carpet board in the boot. This type of warping is a sign of water damage that is hard to explain in any other way.

Colour of oil

The oil can also provide evidence of water damage. Check for changes in the colour and the viscosity of the oil. Oil that has been affected will have a much different look and feel to that of regular oil.

Generally if you suspect a car has been damaged by high water, it should be inspected by a qualified automotive technician and cleaned properly when it concerns the engine, transmission, steering, etc. because flooded vehicles are submerged not only in water but in the dirt that is suspended in it, which is a terrible combination when it comes to moving parts (ie: cylinders, pistons, etc).

Image courtesy of: www.goldcoastbulletin.com.au

Here are some ways you can check to determine whether that car you have just fallen in love with is a flood damaged vehicle:

• Check the upholstery and carpeting for damage/mildew (particularly the boot area, as there is little air circulation, there will be a musty smell).
• Check how the electrical system works and ensure all components are in working order.
• Check oil and fluids and see if they look milky or diluted.
• Check headlights for water collection.
• Check air filter for moisture
• Check underneath the vehicle for any corrosion, rust, debris etc.

If your car has been flooded:

Never attempt to start or drive a flooded vehicle until a thorough inspection and cleaning has been carried out and any necessary repairs have been carried out.

Before attempting to start or drive a flooded vehicle:

• Always check for debris in the engine compartment and under body, even if the water doesn’t appear to have been very high.
• Also be aware that animals, reptiles and insects may have taken refuge in vehicles.
• Silt and mud can also carry contaminants that can cause infection.

Buying a used car always has the potential of being tricky unless you are buying from a very trusted and reputable source. A good place to start when buying a used car is to talk to a reputable dealer. With over 1000 vehicles under one roof, Westside Auto Wholesale has a massive range available with something to suit the needs of everyone, including you.

The best way to avoid a problem is to be proactive with your research. Prepare yourself with knowledge before you start your search and if in doubt, don’t buy it. If you have found that car that you just have to have, then it may be worth investing a few dollars to have it professionally inspected, the peace of mind it provides may prove invaluable later on.

If you’re after a stress-free car buying experience, super savings and a wide selection of quality used cars, why not pay us a visit at Westside Auto Wholesale today? Alternatively, you can check out our full range of stock online at www.westsideauto.com.au or contact a friendly member from our sales team today.

Source: www.revscheck.com.au