Flooded cars from hurricanes Helene, Milton could be heading for used lots near you — here’s how to protect yourself from buying a water damaged vehicle

How does flooding impact cars?

Flood-damaged cars can have significant issues that can end up costing you thousands in repairs and may even put your safety at risk. According to Consumer Reports’ chief mechanic, John Ibbotson, consumers should avoid cars that have been exposed to water damage "even if a vehicle looks acceptable and may be working when you inspect it.”

That's because flooding can cause significant issues by corroding electronics, washing away lubricants and damaging mechanical parts of the vehicle. In some cases, the problems might not show up for years as water, salt and sand slowly erode parts of your car. Damage to systems like airbag controllers can put your life at risk, while other electronic issues can cause problems with radios and even a car's internal computer modules — which impact the engine.

Flood-damaged cars that are considered a total loss by an insurance company should be re-issued a "salvage" title. This means the vehicle has suffered extensive damage, typically making it unsafe or uneconomical to repair. Salvage-titled cars can generally only be resold or driven if they undergo significant repairs and pass an inspection, at which point they are issued a "rebuilt" title that allows them to be sold for road use.

But, according to Consumer Reports, that's not always the case. Flood-damaged cars can reappear on car lots with a clean title, and consumers have no idea they're purchasing a car that could have significant issues or even be unsafe to drive. And while comprehensive car insurance can cover a flooded car, that protection would only apply at the time of the flooding, rather than a year or so later when someone is enduring the aftermath.

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How to spot a flood-damaged car

When buying a used car, it's always a good idea to have a trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle for signs of flood damage. Consumer Reports suggests all car buyers check the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System, which will direct you to government-vetted vehicle history reports.

Other signs to watch out for include faulty instrument lights and any mud, silt or moisture in the glovebox or under the seats. Also, check for moisture or water lines in the headlights and taillights, which can be challenging to clean.

Matt Overbeck, owner of Overbeck Auto Services, also suggests checking the spare tire well in the trunk for moisture, sand or mud.

"Water can actually pool in this low point in the car," Overbeck told WCPO 9 reporters.

Inspect the car's most difficult-to-clean places, such as under the seats, gaps in panels in the trunk and behind the engine, looking for mud, debris or water lines. But don't be fooled by a clean engine; Overbeck says dealers often pressure wash and shine up the engine bay. Instead, look around in places like under the dashboard or behind removable panels where the dealer might have missed signs of flooding.

Dried mud, silt, moisture and rust are the most common indicators that the car was damaged in a flood. If you suspect the vehicle was flooded, walk away. According to Overbeck, electrical problems caused by flood damage can last forever.

"There are upwards of 80 computer modules in modern vehicles," he shared. "If they get submerged in water, there is no way to repair it."