How To Check Flood Affected Car in India In 6 Easy Steps

We take a look at the various tips and pointers to help you identify a flood damaged car and prevent yourself from getting tricked into buying one

Floods have become an unfortunate reality in India, affecting both metro and rural areas. Flooding devastates natural and man-made structures, along with motor vehicles. However, did you know that cars can become water-logged even without a flood? Surprising, isn’t it?

This can happen to cars parked in low-lying or underground parking areas – or even after a light rain shower, if the windows are left open. 

That said, even if a flood-affected car looks brand new, underlying issues could lead to costly repairs down the vehicle’s life. If you're considering purchasing a used car or even a new car that’s been lying in the godown for long, it's crucial to identify whether it has been affected by water. Read on to discover 6 ways to identify flood-damaged cars before making your decision.

Do A Smell Test

One of your five senses can help: start with a ‘sniff’ test. Does the car smell musty, like mold or mildew? Or is there a heavy deodorant scent/car freshener trying to mask the smell? These are all red flags. Getting the stale odour from a car is tough and is a clear sign that the water has been sitting in the car for long. 

If you can’t find any foul odour right away, sit inside the car with all windows rolled up and doors closed, and take a deep breath. Still not sensing anything unpleasant? Try smelling the AC vents—water evaporation from these areas is hard and you may know the reality of the car.

Feel The Car’s Fabric And Upholstery

If your nose fails you, you can always depend on the touch to feel moisture or dampness. Check the upholstery, spare tyre well, and mats. Are they musty, stained, or show signs that they’ve been mud-caked? Or do they look like a brand new replacement -- a clear sign of doubt! 

A severely damaged car will also have its carpets completely removed to be dried in the sun. However, putting back the carpets in the same professional manner, is a task very few people could do. At times, water gets collected on these surfaces, which had not come into the notice of the car seller. 

Tip: You can also check the water damage by fully pulling out the seatbelts out to see for any discoloration. If you see the faded colour, you know that water has entered the vehicle.

Spot Corrosion/Rust

Another flood/water damage indicator is rust, particularly on nuts, bolts, and hinges under the boot, bonnet, seats, or the rust under body— areas where replacement of such components is a challenge. When you find rust in these areas, that implies water remained in these regions for a long time.

Also, interior door panels are not affected by the formation of rust due to rainwater or water splash while washing the car. However, if the car has been sitting in water for a long time, rust will always set in on these parts as well.

Go For A Test Drive

It’s always advisable to take a test drive before purchasing a used car, even if it looks spotless. To ensure all electrical components are functioning properly, start by turning on the ignition switch without starting the engine. Look for the 'engine light' on the instrument panel—if it doesn’t appear, it could indicate that the light was removed or tampered with due to water damage.

Another effective way to check for water damage is by testing the car’s electrical systems. Now, turn the engine on and listen carefully. If you hear clicking sounds or detect smoke coming from the engine, the car is likely to have been in a flood.

Listen for muffling or crackling noises from the stereo—if the stereo has been replaced, that’s also a red flag for flood damage. Inspect the electrical wires under the dashboard by gently twisting them; if they feel brittle or fragile, it's a sign of water exposure. Finally, ensure all dashboard lights, headlights, turn signals, and emergency blinkers are functioning properly.

When checking the car, look for fog or water droplets inside the headlights and rear lights. If you notice any, it is an obvious sign of flood damage as modern car makers utilize water resistant or waterproof material, ensuring they stay moisture-free and crystal clear under normal conditions.  

Additionally, if you find that there is a car whose windshield or windows are foggy, then it is advisable to let that one go, as this could also signal prolonged water exposure.

Tip: Check the seat railings if they make a clicking noise while moving them forward and backward. There could also be rust on screws that are used to fit the seats. 

Check For Dirt Piles

Inspect for grass, dirt, debris, or mud on the car’s exterior. When dirty flood water recedes the car, it often leaves behind traces of debris stuck to surfaces.

Look for these signs in areas like the glove box, trunk, dashboard, under the seats, seat tracks, and even under the hood.

Moreover, when oil colour appears pale or similar to the filter coffee, it indicates water contamination, as these both do not mix. Also, check the paper air filter for stains and check for water lines on the inner fenders inside the hood.

Get Professional Help

Even if you are well-versed about cars, it’s advisable to seek professional assistance. A mechanic will know exactly what to look for and can identify signs of water damage more accurately.

A professional can also inspect components by removing the wheels to check the brakes and wheel assemblies, which might have mud or slime washed in from high water levels.

Tip: Make sure to check for rat infestations, as rodents often seek shelter in vehicles during such conditions.