After major flooding events, water-damaged cars find their way onto the used market, cleaned up to look like nothing happened. Water damage can cause electrical faults, corrosion and mould that show up months later.
Inside the car
✓A musty or mouldy smell, or heavy use of air freshener to cover it.
✓Damp, stained or newly replaced carpets.
✓Silt, mud or water marks under the seats, in the seat rails or in the spare wheel well.
✓Rust on seat bolts, pedals or other metal parts that shouldn't normally rust.
Outside and under the bonnet
✓Condensation or water lines inside headlights and tail lights.
✓Mud or debris in unusual places, such as behind panels or around the engine bay.
✓Corrosion on electrical connectors and wiring.
Electrical symptoms
Intermittent faults such as flickering lights, windows that don't work, or multiple warning lights can all be signs of water getting into the electrics.
Check the records
A PPSR check will show if a car has been recorded as written off, which can include flood-damaged vehicles. A qualified inspection is the best way to check the physical signs.
Book an inspection →SOURCES & FURTHER READINGPersonal Property Securities Register (PPSR) ↗
General information only. For advice on a specific vehicle, book an inspection with a licensed mechanic.