Posted on 8/29/2025
Buying a used car often comes with a degree of uncertainty, and one of the most important things to watch out for is flood damage. Cars that have been submerged in water—even temporarily—can suffer long-term electrical, mechanical, and structural issues. Unfortunately, some of these vehicles are cleaned up, retitled, and resold without clear disclosure. If you’re in the market for a pre-owned vehicle or just want to know if your current one might have been previously affected by flooding, it helps to know the warning signs. Why Flood Damage Is a Big Deal Water intrusion can affect virtually every part of a vehicle. From electronics to engine components to interior materials, moisture can cause corrosion, mold growth, and electrical shorts. In some cases, problems might not show up until months after the flood occurred, making it difficult for the buyer to trace them back to water damage. Even vehicles that appear clean on the surface could be hidi ... read more