How to avoid buying a flooded car?

Basically, everyone understands the disadvantages of a used car that has been flooded, especially when water has entered the engine compartment, it can cause hydrostatic shock. Therefore, when buying, customers often avoid buying used cars that have been "swimming". However, determining whether a car has been flooded is not easy because used car stores or car sellers always try to remove the "evidence".

Absolutely avoid buying from car sellers right after rainy days.

To avoid buying used cars that have been "swim", the first thing to do is to find reputable used car stores, if you know them, the better. When going to those stores, familiar buyers will certainly have more trust in the used cars being sold. If buying directly from someone who needs to sell a car, it should be someone you know or know well about them. Absolutely avoid buying from people selling cars right after the rainy and flooded days, there is a high possibility that those used cars have gone through "a violent past".

When inspecting, pay attention to the floor mats, check for mold, check the seat cushions and surrounding areas, lift the mats to check for dirt or sand underneath. Then, look at the fabric and leather details (including the interior door panels, upholstery and seat belts) and check for stains and suspicious prints.

Next, check the car for any strange odors.Take a sniff of the car's interior, if the car has been flooded it will have a smell that is not too strong but unnatural and a bit foul.The seller may also use perfume or strong deodorant to mask the smell, but that will only reinforce the fact that the car was flooded.

Next, check the brakes and suspension. Compare the mileage to see if the parts are worn beyond the specified limit, and check the small gaps for dirt or sand.Remove the dipstick and oil filter. If the oil is discolored and turns milky white, the car has been heavily flooded.

Cars that are flooded may have condensation on the windows after running the engine for a while.

If all is well, start the engine and check that the check engine light is still on. Let the engine run for a while to warm up, the engine should be running smoothly and moderately. Check all electrical functions and note if any controls do not work when selected. After a few minutes, if you see condensation on the inside of the windows, there may be condensation inside the car.

CIt is possible that self-evaluation will not be objective and certain, soTake a mechanic or someone with experience buying used cars with you. They will help you avoid buying cars that have been "swim" in the rainy season.

And the last thing to remember, don't let your heart overpower your head. If you really like a used car but you discover one of the suspicious signs that it has been flooded, tell yourself not to buy it, there are many better options waiting.