Every year, thousands of flooded cars hit the used market. They look clean on the outside, but inside, corrosion is eating away at the electronics. Buying one of these "ticking time bombs" can cost you thousands in repairs.
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1. The Smell Test (And The Cover-Up)
The first sign is often the smell. Does the car smell like mildew? Or, suspiciously, does it smell too much like air freshener? Dealers often use heavy scents to mask the odor of mold.
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"If a 10-year-old car has brand new carpets, that's a red flag. Why would someone replace the entire flooring unless it was ruined?"
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2. Look for Rust in Odd Places
Surface rust on the undercarriage is normal for older cars in snowy states. However, rust on the dashboard brackets, under the seats, or on the screws in the console is NOT normal.
- Check the seat tracks for rust.
- Look at the exposed screws under the dashboard.
- Inspect the door hinges and latch mechanisms.
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3. The Foggy Headlights Trick
Water often gets trapped inside headlights and taillights. If you see condensation inside the lens, it means the car was submerged deep enough to compromise the seals.
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4. Check the Electronics
Flood cars often have electrical gremlins. Turn on the radio, test the windows, check the wipers. If multiple systems are glitchy, run away.
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5. The Ultimate Proof: Vehicle History
The easiest way to spot a flood car is to check its history. Insurance companies report total losses due to flood damage. A simple VIN check can reveal if the car was titled as "Salvage" or "Flood" in another state.
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