Car Water Damage

Car water damage is far more common than many people would like to think it is. Nearly half a million cars suffered water damage during the hurricanes of recent years in the southern United Sates. How can you check to see if the vehicle you are interested in might have water damage?

Most states require that water damage be noted on the car's title, but you shouldn't always rely on that to protect you. Some states have far less restrictions than others and unscrupulous sellers will often move their cars great lengths to sell them without having to fix the damage.

The single best piece of advice when buying a used car is to always have the vehicle inspected. While a mechanic may not be able to tell if the car has been damaged by water, he may find something else that alerts you to the fact that something isn't right with the vehicle. You can specifically request the mechanic to look for flood damage as well if so desired. He may discover something you missed and save you from a lot of expensive problems in the future.

You should also ask to see the car's title. If it is a salvage title or flood-damaged, it should be noted, and you should reconsider buying the vehicle. If the title of the car is from another state, you should question how it came to be in your state. Some insurance companies end up with salvaged cars, and if the seller is an insurance company, you should ask where the car came from and how they came to own it.

Strong smells in the car can also be an indication that something is wrong. Water damage can smell moldy or an attempt to cover it up with strong air fresheners may be made. Rust and new paint on the exterior can also be an indication of something being covered up or undiscovered damaged. Mold can also form on some cars, and you should be wary of large discolorations in car seats and carpets. You should also inspect the trunk for water damage, mud or dirt.

Water damage can also affect the cars electrical system. Make sure you turn on all the electrical systems to ensure they are working properly. Getting a vehicle history report is always a good idea as well and is always recommended.

Always be wary when buying a used vehicle. Approach it with an elevated level of scrutiny worthy of the significant financial decision that it is. A little extra time and effort in the beginning can potentially save you a lot of money and headache in the end.