Oszustwa
How do I recognize a flood-damaged car when the seller denies it?
asked by Sarah on
The car is cheap, the interior smells of air freshener and the seller says it "never stood in water". What should I look at?
1 answers
DAExport answer
Water traces are hidden with air freshener, but moisture stays in places the seller does not open: under the carpets and mats, in the sills, under the seats, in fuse boxes and in headlights. Look for silt stains, rust on seat rails and bolts under the dash, and mould.
Electronics are the second clue: odd entries in the control-unit fault memory, corrosion on connectors, windows that behave unevenly. The vehicle history may carry a damage record, but many such cars are sold with no trace in any registry.
On an inspection we read the fault memory, check the sills and lift the carpet, and advise walking away when in doubt. Similar tricks are covered in the scams guide.
Next step:Order an inspection