AAA offers tips for identifying flood-damaged cars and steps to take if your car was submerged in water
WICHITA, Kan. – Aug. 13, 2025 – As of July 15, more than 3,000 flash flood warnings had been issued in communities across the United States – that’s the highest on record for the time period since the modern alert system went into effect Flash flooded street.jpgin the mid-1980’s.
Vehicles across the country have been trapped in those rising and rushing flood waters this year. Even partially submerged cars can be unsafe to drive and nearly impossible to identify. AAA warns car buyers to be on the lookout for flooded out vehicles that may have made their way to the used car market.
“Modern vehicles have much more technology on board than ever before,” said Shawn Steward, Public Affairs Manager for AAA Kansas. “There are wiring systems, sensors and electronic modules running throughout our vehicles, including behind the bumpers and fenders. Water intrusion into those systems can cause serious, costly and potentially unrepairable damage.”
The engine and many other mechanical components can be heavily damaged or inoperable due to water as well. The cost of repairing flood damage is often more than the value of the vehicle itself and insurance will declare it a total loss.
Flood-damaged vehicles are typically given a salvage or flood title (depending on the state) and recycled for parts or crushed for scrap, but some end up on the used car market – and could end up in your driveway. “The seller may have made some repairs to get the vehicle running and looking nice, but there could be hidden problems that will eventually catch up with the new buyer,” AAA’s Steward said.
Follow these steps to avoid a flood-damaged car:
- Choose a reputable car dealer.
- Smell for mold or mildew.
- Check upholstery and door panels for water stains, mud, rusted screws and components or new or mismatched fabric/carpeting.
- Search the trunk and under carpets for dirt, sand, mildew or other signs of water or water damage.
- Scrutinize the seatbelts for mildew, water spots and dirt. Pulling the belt all the way out may reveal tell-tale watermarks or other signs of water intrusion.
- Test electrical components, including window and seat controllers, turn signals, radio and A/C.
- Look for rust inside the hood and around doors, hinges and screws.
- Check for fog or moisture inside headlights, taillights and turn-signal lights.
- Get a free report on the vehicle. Visit the National Insurance Crime Bureau website for a free VINCheck. Just type in the Vehicle Identification Number to find out whether the car you are interested in buying was ever reported as a salvage or flood vehicle by insurance companies that belong to the NICB. Be aware that VIN fraud, where VIN numbers are switched or altered, can occur.
- Purchase a CARFAX report for even more detailed information about the car, including major accidents, number of previous owners, mileage rollbacks and manufacturer recalls.
- Have a mechanic do a thorough inspection.
- If a deal seems too good to be true, it’s often an indicator that the seller is trying to get rid of a car that’s likely to have problems in the future.
“It can take many months to over a year for flood-damaged cars to make their way to market. Buyers should always thoroughly inspect vehicles before purchasing,” added Steward.
Storm season is still upon Us – Would you know what to do if your car floods?
With much of the summer and much of hurricane season still in front of us, many more cars are at risk of becoming flood-damaged this year.Dealing with a flooded vehicle may be much more than just an inconvenience, it could represent a significant expense or a total loss. Damage caused by floodwater is only covered for drivers who have the OPTIONAL comprehensive coverage as part of their auto policy.
- When dealing with an automobile that has been in a flood, the first step should be to contact your insurance company (provided you have comprehensive coverage) for help in determining the best course of action.
- Call a repair facility for guidance and to see if they are accepting flood-damaged vehicles before arranging for a tow.
- Take photographs of any visible damage, including water inside and around the vehicle if you can safely do that.
Do not attempt to start the vehicle – if the engine compartment was underwater and the car was parked do not attempt to start the car as the engine will have taken in water which will cause engine damage. Before attempting to start a flood-damaged car, a qualified technician should:
- Inspect all readily accessible mechanical and electrical components, and systems that contain fluids, for water contamination.
- Drain floodwater from contaminated components and systems, flush with clean water or an appropriate solvent, and refill with new clean fluids of the proper type.
- Inspect, clean, and dry electrical system components and connections.
To find a qualified mechanic, check out the list of AAA Approved Auto repair shops near you.
As always, as severe storms continue to make headlines, now is a good time to review your insurance policy and make sure you’re covered for the future. You can learn more about the different kinds of coverage in this The Extra Mile article.
