Read our article to spot a flood-damaged vehicle and provide tips to avoid them.

One must avoid buying flood-damaged vehicles, especially that they can’t run for long. In this article, Philcarnews.com provides you with tips on how to recognize cars that have experienced flood damage.

1. Tropical Storms and Flood-Damaged Vehicles

When Typhoon Ondoy in 2009 and Typhoon Yolanda in 2013 hardly hit the Philippines, it triggered catastrophic levels of damages. Estimated tens of thousands of vehicles were destroyed, and some were believed to be lost when the powerful storms affected the Luzon area and Tacloban respectively.

People who lost their vehicles to flood damage will badly need a new vehicle for transport. Established car dealers like Toyota, Honda and Nissan also have noticed such an increase in sales after the storms. People just needed to buy a new mode of transportation.

Typhoon Yolanda caused billions of damage to property and environment

We, therefore, urge anyone who needs a vehicle not to act so quickly unless they prefer brand-new. Note that several vehicles suffered flood damage and may need to end up on sale, not just in areas affected by the storm. People discovered that flood-damaged vehicles are all out for sale across the Philippines.

These vehicles must be avoided, so you need to be careful and learn how to spot some signs of flood damage.

2. What to Do with a Car after Flooding

If your vehicle has been submerged for a long time in floodwater, it can pose car problems that can affect the electrical systems, mechanical systems and lubricants. To repair a flood-damaged vehicle is expensive, especially that you need to overhaul it.  Should you travel in a flooded area, wait till the water subsides before you pursue driving your car.

But there are times when you’re trapped in traffic or may have parked the car in flood-prone areas. When it happens, inspect the vehicle later to detect damages and make it suitable for the road once again.

Cars who have been submerged in flood water for a long period of time can cause a serious problem in its electric system

To ensure safety, never start your car after the flooding. It may trigger irreparable damages to the electronics and engine, or worst can even ignite a fire. When in doubt, allow a reputed repair shop to tow your vehicle for thorough inspection.

If you’re purchasing a used or second-hand vehicle, check the unit if they show signs of flood damage. Or even better, let a qualified mechanic check the vehicle.

There are also local auto dealers who engage in trade-in programs and make people sell their flood-damaged cars. The dealers will restore the vehicle like new and have it sold as a pre-owned vehicle.

3. Spotting and Avoiding Flood-Damaged Vehicles

If you feel you need to replace a vehicle after a flood-related disaster, be extra cautious with your choices. Flood damage can do more harm than good even if the vehicle appears okay. Deep down the engine, it is slowly deteriorating, and you need to be careful. This can waste some of your money as it can’t be useful in the future.

3.1. Be Cautious 

Be aware of anything suspicious. If someone is trying to sell a vehicle fast for a bargain price, you need to know the reason why. Law enforcement and insurance companies ensure that all salvageable vehicles are considered permanently damaged.

However, there are unethical sellers who scam consumers by selling flood-damaged vehicles without informing them the real cause of damage. So, be extra careful and try to know where you’re buying the vehicle from. 

>>> Also check out: 

• 4 Car Parts to Check After Flood
• 3 reasons why you shouldn't buy flood-damaged cars

Some flood-damaged cars look fine but its engine may slowly deteriorate

3.2. Thoroughly Inspect the Interior of the Car

You will know if the car has been compromised by floodwater if it has a musty, mildew smell. The damp odor will show some dirt build-up in unusual places like beneath the dashboard. You may also want to pull back the carpeting to show signs of staining. The buyers will also need to check the glove compartment and the seats in between for possible residual sludge or debris.

Some used car sellers will attempt to conceal the appearance of selling a flood-damaged car by upgrading the interiors, shampooed carpeting and masking scents with car deodorizers. The buyer needs to be warned about how the vehicle appears as the seller is trying to hide the damage.

3.3. Improper Functioning in the Electrical Systems

This part of the vehicle will sustain more serious damages after the flooding. Moisture can trigger short circuits in the electrical system and will have improper functioning in the most critical parts. If you’re checking the electrical components, see if the engine can start safely. Relays, switches and plugs must be kept dry.

Moisture can trigger short circuits in the electrical system 

3.4. Look for Rust Under the Vehicle 

Check underneath the vehicle if you see spots of rust. It’s a sign that the vehicle has been damaged by floodwater. One must note that corrosion is uncommon for brand-new vehicles and in warmer climate areas.

3.5. Go for a Test Drive

If the vehicle passes the overall check, ensure that you test drive, so you know if it really runs and how it runs. You need to test all buttons, electrical systems, switches, etc. Listen to the abnormal grinding and squealing noises. Ensure that you run the car in varying speeds for some time.

Ensure that you test drive to check how it runs

3.6. Have a Professional Check the Vehicle

Finally, if you’re purchasing the car, allow a reputed mechanic to perform an inspection. If you are working with an experienced mechanic, he can easily detect signs of damage which you may have missed earlier.

If your area is prone to powerful storms and there is a need to replace your old car, be careful with what you drive in the next few months or weeks. Simply by following these tips, you avoid buying flood-damaged vehicles.

4. How to Find Financing

Whether you’re opting for a car loan or lost a vehicle due to water damage, there are some financing institutions that help buyers deal with their credit problems. They have been existing for many years and understand why buyers need a special finance for their chosen car dealerships.

To find a local provider, you may need to check out the Internet for information. You can ask for car loan request forms and verify if they can provide financing for a vehicle.

>>> Click to get more helpful tips and advice for all car owners