thinking about buying a previous flooded car, Help?

R

Ralfcoder

New member
Bad idea... bad, BAD idea!

If the car was flooded as bad to make you worry about this, drop it like a toxic hot potato, and don't buy it. You could have damaged electronics, you could have mold, you could have rust issues, you could mechanical problems from water in the transmission, differential, axles, engine, and anywhere in between.

If you don't believe me, ask ANY mechanic (except the one that might be trying to sell you this) and you'll get the same answer. It'll probably turn into a money pit. Or read the article below from Click and Clack - the guys on cartalk, on NPR.
 
I know that there can be issues with the wiring, and i plan on replacing that. My question is, there is mold on the seats, can you get that out?
 
You MAY end up spending as much money in the end as you would have for a car with NO issues. Why not just buy a GOOD car and take no chances.

Water MAY have gotten into the fuel tank and/or the engine.
 
Mold can be really insidious (as well as a health hazard). The best way to eliminate it altogether would be to either replace the cushioning within the upholstery or have the cushioning and carpeting treated with some sort of biocide that will kill the mold (which has a smell of its own).

In a worst case scenario, you can try to replace the seating components with those from a similar non-flood salvage vehicle while still coming-out well ahead.

Depending on how recently the vehicle was flood damaged, however, evidence of mode will usually make itself apparent (one way or another) within 3-6 months. If it's beyond that, you can concentrate on repairing or replacing the wiring and vehicle computer systems.

Best of luck, I hope this helps.
 
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