Why It’s Important to Spot Flood Damage

Flood-damaged cars can be tempting to purchase, especially if they come at a discounted price. However, these vehicles often come with hidden risks that could end up costing you much more in repairs and safety concerns down the line. Flood damage doesn’t always show up at first glance, so knowing what to look for is essential if you’re buying a used car.

Here’s how to spot a flood-damaged car before it becomes a costly mistake.

1. Check the Vehicle’s History

The first step in spotting flood damage is to check the car’s history. In the UK, vehicles are often registered with the DVLA, and flood-damaged cars are usually marked in some way on their records. Services like HPI Check can help you access details about the car’s past, including whether it’s been involved in any flooding incidents or recorded as a write-off due to water damage.

If the car has a flood damage history, you should proceed with caution. Sometimes, however, flood damage isn’t reported, especially if the car wasn’t officially written off. That’s why it’s important to look for physical signs of damage, too.

2. Look for Water Marks and Mud Residue

One of the most obvious signs of a flood-damaged car is the presence of water marks or mud residue. These can often be found in areas that would typically be submerged during a flood, such as:

• Under the dashboard: Check for signs of water stains or dirt trapped under the dashboard, especially around the footwells and beneath the seats.
• Under the seats: Inspect the carpet and upholstery for mud stains or signs of moisture. A damp smell or the presence of dried mud can indicate water exposure.
• In the boot: Open the boot and look for signs of water marks, rust, or mud in the corners of the boot space or under the spare wheel compartment.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s a strong indication that the car has been exposed to floodwater. Even if the car has been cleaned, residual mud or water stains can be difficult to remove completely.

3. Smell for Musty or Mildewy Odours

Flood-damaged cars often have a distinct musty or mildewy smell due to mould and mildew growth that can occur when the interior is exposed to water. While cars naturally accumulate a little dust or stale air, a strong, persistent damp smell is a clear warning sign that the car may have been affected by flooding.

Check the upholstery, carpets, and air vents for signs of mould. The air conditioning or heater might also distribute these smells through the vents, so make sure to check that area, too. If you notice a persistent musty odour that doesn’t dissipate, it’s a red flag.

4. Examine the Electrical System

Water and electricity don’t mix well, and in flood-damaged cars, water can cause serious electrical problems. Inspect the car’s electrical system, paying particular attention to:

• Dashboard Lights: Flickering or malfunctioning dashboard lights can indicate electrical issues caused by water damage to the car’s wiring.
• Windows and Seats: Test all the windows, electric mirrors, and seat adjustments. If they’re unresponsive or malfunctioning, it could be due to water damage in the electrical system.
• Airbag System: Check that the airbags deploy correctly. Floodwater can damage sensors and wiring, preventing the airbags from working properly in an accident.

If any of the electrical systems don’t work as they should or seem to malfunction intermittently, there’s a high likelihood of water damage to the wiring and components.

5. Inspect the Car’s Exterior for Rust or Corrosion

Floodwater can accelerate rusting and corrosion, especially in parts of the car that aren’t visible during a quick inspection. Check for:

• Rust on metal parts: Examine areas like the door frames, chassis, undercarriage, and the bottom of the doors for signs of rust or corrosion, which can occur after exposure to water.
• Corrosion on screws and bolts: Look at the screws and bolts around the door hinges and inside the boot area. Corrosion here is a clear sign of water damage.
• Suspension components: Check the suspension and steering components for signs of rust. Water damage can cause severe wear on these parts.

If rust or corrosion is present, it can indicate that the car was submerged in water, and it could cause long-term issues with the car’s structural integrity.

6. Check the Engine Compartment

The engine compartment is another area that can reveal signs of flood damage. Look for:

• Discolouration or rust on engine parts: Water can cause rust to form on engine components, including the radiator, battery terminals, and other metal parts.
• Water in the oil: Check the engine oil dipstick. If the oil looks milky or frothy, this could indicate water contamination from the floodwater. This is a clear sign that the car has been affected by water damage.

If you find any of these signs, the engine may have suffered significant damage, and the car may not be worth buying, even if it seems to run well at first.

7. Get a Professional Inspection

If you suspect that the car has been flooded but can’t find obvious signs, it’s a good idea to have a professional mechanic conduct a thorough inspection. A mechanic will be able to spot more subtle signs of water damage, such as water damage to the electrical systems or hidden mould growth in areas like the dashboard or air vents.

Many car buyers choose to hire an expert inspection service to assess a vehicle's condition before making a purchase, especially when the car’s history isn’t clear.

Useful UK Resources

• AutoTrader: How to spot flood-damaged cars
• HPI Check: Vehicle history check
• RAC: How to check a used car

Spotting a flood-damaged car can be tricky, but with careful inspection and a little know-how, you can avoid purchasing a car with hidden issues. Always take your time, do your research, and don’t be afraid to walk away from a deal if something doesn’t feel right.