What to check if your car is flooded
Follow these essential steps to inspect your car after a flood:
Check your oil indicator
A high oil level reading may tell you there's water in the engine. Do not start or run your car — it could cause further, severe damage.
Measure the depth of the water that submerged your car
Look for the high-water mark. It's possible water did not enter any parts that are susceptible to damage.
Determine how long your car was submerged
The less time the vehicle was under water, the more salvageable any damaged parts may be.
Note the type of water that flooded your vehicle
Fresh water causes less damage to your car than salt water.
Check local weather reports for the temperature during and after flooding
Warmer temperatures may speed up corrosion, especially if salt water flooded your car.
What to look for when car shopping
Cars with flood damage often appear on used car lots. If you're buying a used car, learn how to spot the problems with flood-damaged vehicles.
Buy only from a reputable dealer
You're more likely to get the truth about a vehicle's past life from a reputable dealer.
Ask the dealer if the vehicle has sustained flood damage
Whatever the answer, get it in writing with the bill of sale if you buy a flood-damaged car.
Ask to see the vehicle's title
If you think the vehicle has sustained damage in a flood and the car title is not stamped "Salvage" or "Flood," ask for the car's history to see if it came from a state that recently experienced flooding.
Find out how extensive the flood damage is
In some cases, the damage cars sustain in a flood is serious, but if a car has sustained only minor flood damage, it can still be a good used car.
Look for obvious signs of damage
Check for dried mud or rust in the glove compartment and trunk, and under the dashboard, seats, and carpet. Look for discolored, faded, or stained upholstery or carpeting. If the carpeting fits loosely or the color doesn't match the interior, it may have been replaced because the vehicle was flood damaged.
Look for hidden signs of damage
Check the instrument panel to see that all gauges are working properly. Check on the outside of the engine, inside garnish moldings and "kick plates," and inside the rear compartment or trunk for a distinguishing water line to see how deep the car was submerged.
Find out what kind of water damaged the vehicle
Ask if the car was flood damaged by salt or fresh water. Salt water is more corrosive and can cause more serious damage.
Have a professional inspect the vehicle
Take the used vehicle to a trusted mechanic to be checked for any signs of flood damage. Spending a little extra time to thoroughly check out a used car before you buy it can save you a great deal of money in the long run.
A flood can happen anytime there's been heavy rain. Follow these tips to ensure you know what to do the next time your vehicle is flooded, or when you are shopping for a used car that could have sustained flood damage. If your vehicle has suffered flood damage, file your claim as soon as possible.
