Any car that's been subjected to water should be sold well below market value, and unless the dealership can prove extensive restoration, you should be offered a dream deal. After all, when buying a flood-damaged car, you're assuming a substantial financial risk that major repairs could be necessary.
Flood damage can ruin a vehicle in any number of ways, from eating away the electronics wiring to seizing up mechanical systems, and the damage may not reveal itself for months or even years. Corrosion and rust are insidious, often eating away at sheet metal and components from the inside out.
Flood Damage has not been reported to CARFAX. ... Order the CARFAX Vehicle History Report to see all the information reported on this vehicle.
Here are a few ways you can spot a flood-damaged car.
A flooded vehicle can be repaired by an experienced mechanic, not you! ... The bulk of these vehicles will be repaired, regrettably, and the way to do it is not exactly rocket science. This is basically what you should do with the engine. Check the oil dipstick to see if there is any water contamination.
Number of flood-damaged cars
The moisture can short the car's electrical system and compromise safety features such as air bags and anti-lock brakes. Flood-damaged cars also present another, less obvious, concern: health issues. They can develop mildew and mold, which can trigger allergic reactions and asthma attacks.
If the vehicle is so damaged that it is no longer operable, the driver's insurance company settles the claim by buying the vehicle and selling it as a “salvage” at an auto auction. Dishonest and unscrupulous car dealers buy the vehicles, dry and clean them, yet leave plenty of hidden flood damage.
Suppose a used Lexus you want to buy is worth $15,000 in the private party person-to-person market. A flooded vehicle should be 25% less, then another $2,000 lower to allow for repairs. That flooded Lexus should then sell for: $15,000 - $3,750 -$2,000 = $9,250.
If your vehicle is totaled by water damage, comprehensive coverage helps pay to replace your vehicle, up to its depreciated value (called "actual cash value"). Water damage can be frustrating for any car owner, but having comprehensive coverage may help reimburse you if your vehicle is damaged by hail or flooding.
If a vehicle was submerged, it doesn't take an insurance company very long to inspect it and declare it is salvageable or a total loss,” she says.
If you drove into a flooded area, you may have taken water into the engine. ... Major flooding can lead to trouble with the engine, electrical system, air bags or other major car components may be damaged or compromised. Minor flooding can lead to rust, mold and other issues.
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