Nature is a powerful thing that cannot be controlled. Hurricanes are one example of how powerful nature can be. Disastrous events can leave all sorts of damage behind, including flood damage to cars. When looking for used vehicles to purchase, you need to make sure you avoid buying these types of vehicles, and here’s why.
The Damage May Be Substantial
Sometimes the damage associated with flooded cars can put the driver and passengers in danger. The water that penetrates a car could lead to electronic or lubricant issues. Lubricants reduce the chances of car parts catching fire. It should also be noted that corrosion could develop later on. This problem is silent and difficult to detect in a used car inspection but could put you in jeopardy. Given enough time, corrosion could compromise electronics as well. Keep in mind the airbags you depend on also rely on your car’s electronics, which may be compromised.
Flood-Damaged Cars Can Have Costly Repairs
You should know what you’re getting yourself into if you’re considering a car with flood damage. These cars come with damage that needs to be addressed quickly. The car’s electrical components are vital, so they should be addressed right away, but these issues are usually difficult to repair and costly.
Restoring a flooded car is going to require a significant amount of money and patience. Most people do not have the money or time to invest in a flooded car that is not a classic or special vehicle. Keep in mind the whole point of having a car is to get you from point A to point B. A car that cannot provide reliable transportation is a waste of money. Insurance companies are not going to want to insure flooded vehicles either.
There are several additional issues related to cars with flood damage, including the following:
Mold growth or other bad odors
Dirty engine
Seat jerking when adjusting
Safety belts that do not pull out easily
These are just some of the reasons you shouldn’t buy a car with flood damage. It’s a good idea to check vehicle records when purchasing a used vehicle, even if the seller tells you there is nothing wrong with the car. Some sellers may lie to get more money for their vehicles, so be cautious. To be safe, it’s a good idea to get a professional auto inspection done on the car before purchasing it.
At Lemon Squad, we do our best to detect flood damage, but it’s not always possible to see this type of damage. However, you should still give us a call to look for these and many other potential issues. To schedule an appointment with one of our technicians, give us a call at 1-888-231-7965.