How To Detect Water Damage Restoration In Cars
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by: gbroad
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Word Count: 514
Date: Wed, 31 Dec 2008 Time: 12:00 AM
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Flood damage is not isolated to damages to a home and the items it contains. Floods can very much cause severe damage to vehicles, regardless of the size. Floods can sweep over cars, SUVs and even trucks, which makes water damage restoration close to impossible, particularly if the vehicles are submerged in floods for a very long time.
These water-damaged vehicles should end up in the junk yard. However, some unscrupulous individuals would clean these vehicles up, perform haphazard water damage restoration, then transfer these vehicles to other states or location then put them up for sale in the auto market. Unsuspecting individuals looking for bargain sales could end up with a rolling junk.
Cars that have been submerged in floodwater are prone to permanent damage that even extensive water damage restoration can fail to bring back to original conditions. Aside from the engines most likely to break down, electrical and mechanical parts will eventually fail. Flood-damaged items are also prone to mold and mildew infestation and would be difficult to remove completely without the risk of re-growth.
For prospective buyers looking for second-hand cars, it would be best to take note of these following tips to guide you in what to check or look for to determine if a vehicle has undergone water damage restoration or not. Even if you live in a state or an area that is not prone to flooding, your area could be a recipient of transferred cars that encountered flood damage from another location.
* Check for signs of moisture and dirt in unlikely places.
Dome lights and other lights in a car are watertight and sealed from the outside. The only way water can enter these casings is from the inside out. Be wary if you find beads of moisture inside light casings. Compartments in the console and trunks should be checked for unusual dampness and the presence of dirt. Ordinary dust could not put this dirt in there and could be residues from floodwaters. Look under the hood and other places that are not regularly touched by water for any signs of rust. Other places to check if the car has undergone water damage restoration are under the seats.
* Follow your sense of smell.
A sour, musky or pungent odor that is quite distinct for molds and mildew can tell you that there is infestation inside the car. You can smell these without seeing where they come from, as molds can grow under the carpets or even inside the seats. Seats and carpets that are soaked in floodwaters are very difficult to restore, are very susceptible for mold, and mildew growth.
* Drive test the car and check functionality.
Insist on a test drive if you suspect the car has undergone water damage restoration. It would be best to bring a mechanic along with you during testing. Check the condition of the engine as well as other mechanical and electrical features of the car. If you suspect something that the salesperson is hiding regarding the history of the car, do not take chances and look for another seller.
About the Author
Gretchen Vuvalgee reports on issues affecting homeowners for Water Damage Repair Los Angeles, CA and Philadelphia Water Damage Restoration
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