This past year has been a particularly severe one for flooding in North America. Ontario was hit with over $1 billion in insured damage from summer floods, making it the second-costliest summer for flooding in the province (surpassed only by the Toronto floods in 2013). An August flood in Montreal caused over $2.5 billion in damage, making it the most expensive flood in Quebec’s history. And the U.S. suffered one of the worst hurricane seasons of the modern era, with preliminary estimated losses pegged at more than US$100 billion.
Surges in flood-related damage pose a hidden risk that could surface anywhere, not just in flood-hit regions: the risk of buying a flood-damaged used car. Unfortunately, there are unscrupulous car sellers who will ‘clean up’ a car that should have been written off and attempt to sell it to unsuspecting buyers, including those in neighbouring jurisdictions.
Here are some expert tips from Consumer Reports and CARFAX on how to protect yourself from buying a potentially unsafe car:
Review the vehicle’s history. Use IBC’s free VIN Verify service to check whether a vehicle has been reported as non-repairable in Alberta, Ontario or the Atlantic provinces. In addition, a CARFAX Canada Vehicle History Report can reveal past damage, including flood exposure or a collision. This search will also include information about any liens or previous registrations.
Use your nose. A musty smell can signal waterlogged carpets or seat padding. Also, be wary of strong air fresheners, which may be masking underlying issues.
Examine the carpets and seats. Inspect for mud, caked-on dirt or water stains under carpets and in hard-to-reach areas. Brand-new upholstery or carpets in an older car may also be a red flag.
Look for condensation or waterlines. Check the dashboard for condensation, which could hint at trapped moisture. Also, inspect lights and reflectors for visible waterlines that indicate the vehicle has been in a flood.
Scrutinize tight spots. Look in the gaps between panels and brackets where grime doesn’t usually collect. Even the bottom edges of metal brackets can show flood residue. Also, look under the hood for mud or rust; there shouldn’t be any.
Test the accessories. Moisture can damage electronics. Test the lights, wipers, radio, air conditioner and other dashboard controls to ensure they’re working properly.
Look for rust on screws and metal parts. Bare metal, especially screws under the dashboard, will show rust if exposed to flood water. This is a telltale sign of past water damage.
Get a pre-purchase inspection. Have a licensed mechanic conduct a full inspection. Over time, flood damage can corrode brakes and steering and electrical systems, leading to costly repairs down the road. A professional can best detect these future problems now.
As you conduct an inspection of a vehicle you’re considering buying, be careful not to do damage to it; after all, it’s not yours yet and you don’t want to be held liable.
Even if a vehicle was submerged in water for only a short time, the flood water can cause mechanical, electrical, health and safety issues. As the incidence of flooding increases across North America, taking these precautions can make a significant difference for Canadians wanting to purchase a safe, reliable used car.
