Buying a car is always a risk, especially if it is a used vehicle. One of the main dangers a buyer may face is the purchase of a "drowned car".
This is a vehicle that has been hit by water and flooded. Scammers, in order to maximize their profits, may disguise the water marks and sell it as a normal car. Such cars can cause a lot of problems for their new owners, ranging from bad odor to serious malfunctions.
We are engaged in car buyback in Kiev for many years and always help you with the choice of a good car when buying.
To avoid buying such a car, you need to know how to recognize a "drowned car". In this article we will tell you about the key signs of such a car, what to pay attention to when inspecting the interior and engine, and how to check the condition of the electronics.
What does the interior look like in a car that's been floating
The interior is the first thing a potential buyer sees, so scammers do their best to make it look immaculate. However, there are signs that are difficult to disguise.
First of all, pay attention to the odor. If you can smell rot or mold in the cabin, it is a serious reason to think about it. Unpleasant odor may remain even after thorough washing and treatment of the interior.
What to check first
- Check the condition of the carpets and seats. If they show signs of mold or rot, the vehicle has probably been floating.
- Check the metal parts of the passenger compartment. If they show signs of corrosion, this could also be a sign that the vehicle has been floating.
- Carefully inspect the condition of all rubber seals. Water entering the passenger compartment can damage them, and crooks often forget to replace them.
What you can see under the hood
There are also many clues to be found under the hood of a drowning car. First, check the oil level in the engine. If the oil has a whitish color, it could be a sign of water intrusion.
You should also inspect all electrical connections and wires. If they show signs of corrosion, this could also be a sign that the vehicle has been floating.
What is the condition of the electronics of such a car
Car electronics are very sensitive to moisture. Therefore, if the vehicle has been floating, it is likely that its electronics have been damaged. First of all, check the function of all the instruments on the dashboard.
It is also worth checking the operation of all electrical systems: air conditioning, power windows, music system, etc. If any of these do not work or do not work correctly, it may be a sign of electronic problems.
If already purchased, will it drive?
If you have already bought a car and you have suspicions that it is a drowning car, the first thing to do is to contact a professional for a full inspection of the car. Only a professional will be able to assess the full extent of possible problems.
In some cases, if the damage is not too severe, the car can be repaired. However, more often than not, repairs will be very expensive and it will be easier and cheaper to buy another car.
In conclusion, we would like to say that buying a drowned car can bring a lot of problems. Therefore, it is better to be careful and thoroughly check the car before buying.
