With hurricane season approaching, we know that the possibility of used cars that have flood damage is also looming in the not-so-distance future. What's wrong with buying one of them? Well, the problem with flood damage is you never really know how bad the damage is until it's too late. While carpets may have been replaced and the seats cleaned, there could be issues with the mechanical or electrical systems that just haven't reared their ugly heads yet.
Why is flood damage a bad thing?
That's why we advise our used car shoppers not to buy cars with flood damage or salvage cars - there are just too many unknowns involved. Unfortunately, not all sellers disclose this information because they know it makes their ride less desirable. How can you spot this type of damage if it's not disclosed to you? Check out these quick tips from our Orlando Toyota sales specialists.
Tip #1: Take a big whiff when you open the door. If you smell mold or mildew, the car could have been flooded and simply quickly cleaned before being put up for sale. Also, be on the lookout for strong air fresheners - these can be used to hide other less-than-desirable smells.
Tip #2: Look for rust. You may not see it on the exterior panels of the car - the painted parts - but it's important to check for it in the unpainted places. This means the doorjambs, inside the trunk, under the seats and pedals, etc. If you see rust, it could mean the car was flooded and then left to sit and who knows what else is wrong with it?
Tip #3: Be on the lookout for fogging behind glass. We mean in the headlights and taillights, in the instrument panel, etc. If you see moisture or droplets behind the glass or plastic in these places, it can indicate that the car was previously flooded.
Tip #4: Be wary of brand-new upholstery and seats. Ask why they were replaced - was it to refresh the look of the car or to get rid of the mildewy smell that comes along with flood damage?
Tip #5: For this last one, you're going to want to pop the trunk and the hood and look for any mud or silt that may still be in there from flood damage. Sometimes owners miss these spots when it comes to cleaning and they can be a dead giveaway.
Get help with used car or car damage questions at Toyota of Orlando
Have questions? Call our Toyota of Orlando body shop today! We're open seven days a week at (407) 298-2040.
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