Here how it works
After the vehicle gets damaged, the insurance company pays off the amount and brands the car title indicating the type of loss such as rebuilt wreck, salvage or flood victim and then takes possession of the vehicle. Later the vehicle is hauled off to an insurance auction. Although most buyers are the legitimate businesses such as Sacramento used car dealerships however, there are also the dishonest vehicle rebuilders who own the 'chop shops'. Such unscrupulous rebuilders are always on the lookout for buying premium vehicles at the lowest price. Later they rebuild the vehicle and sell it off at the auction circuit to sell lemon to the auction buyers.
Here is your quick tip - Always run a title history report prior purchasing the vehicle.
So, what happens to a flood damaged car basically?
To be honest, the car might perform pretty well for a couple of months and then it gradually transforms into a money pit. So, first things first - conduct a thorough pre purchase inspection irrespective of the fact, whether the car comes from a rebuilder, from an individual seller or even from the dealerships of used cars for sale at Sacramento.
What are the aspects to watch out for in a pre-purchase inspection?
You need a pair of trained eye to identify such things such paint over spray that indicates repair, body damage water damage and other telltale signs of major repair.
Water damage: Usually you would be able to find water lines in the engine compartment at the trunk and even at the doorjambs. Stay away from the car if you find green, crusty substance right at the junction blocks and electrical plugs
Also, check the carpet for a proper fit and if you find the carpet is loose and wrinkled then chances are there that the carpet has been removed for repairing flood damage!
Odometer rollback: Informed buyers will also take a close look at the odometer for improper alignment. This typically suggests odometer tampering after the vehicle was being repaired after flood damage.
Check the fluid of the power steering: You need to check the color of the fluid in order to determine whether or not there is any presence of metal flakes. Black fluid indicates that the fluid has been impregnated with metal flakes and that's a clear sign of system wear. On the other hand, milky color indicates water has been mixed with the fluid. This indicates that the car was underwater.
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