Can Flood-Damaged Cars Be Bought or Sold?

[Weston]

Flood-damaged cars cannot be bought or sold. Additional information is as follows: I. Flood-damaged cars typically have the following issues: 1. Frequent malfunctions: The entire electrical system is usually submerged, leading to recurring electrical faults. 2. Reduced engine performance: Repaired engines often underperform and cannot meet original assembly standards. 3. Rust: Metal components are prone to rust, and once rust forms, it significantly accelerates further corrosion. 4. Musty odor: The car will have a persistent musty smell that is nearly impossible to eliminate until the vehicle is scrapped. II. Based on the depth of water exposure, vehicles can be roughly categorized into three types: 1. Waterlogged cars: Vehicles with water reaching the chassis. These can generally be repaired without major issues and are safe for normal use. 2. Flood-damaged cars: Vehicles submerged up to the dashboard or roof are severely flood-damaged. Even after repairs, they may malfunction unpredictably like "time bombs." 3. Submerged cars: Vehicles completely underwater. These are essentially totaled and cannot be used afterward.

[DelMia]

Flood-damaged cars can theoretically be bought and sold, but as an ordinary consumer, I sincerely advise you to be cautious. I once considered buying one because the price seemed cheap and cost-effective, but after truly understanding the risks, I realized there are too many pitfalls. After a car has been submerged in water, its electrical system is prone to short circuits, much like a water-damaged computer. Critical components such as the ABS braking system or airbag control module may fail. The repair costs are extremely high, with parts replacements often costing tens of thousands of yuan, making it no cheaper than a regular used car in the end. Legally, it’s even more troublesome—sellers are obligated to clearly disclose flood damage. If they don’t and you discover the issue after purchase, you can sue for fraud, but the process of defending your rights is time-consuming and exhausting. Safety comes first—a flood-damaged car could break down or cause an accident while driving. So, my advice is to always check the repair records before buying a used car or bring someone knowledgeable about cars to inspect it. Don’t risk major losses for minor gains.

[MacAmelia]

Flood-damaged cars can certainly be bought and sold, and they are quite common in the market. I've seen many cases where buyers purchased flood-damaged cars at a low price, only to spend a fortune on repairs and encounter issues within six months. Sellers who fail to disclose the truth are violating regulations, as used car trading laws require full disclosure of flood damage history to avoid disputes. The repair process must also be thorough, with inspections and cleaning of wiring, the engine, and the chassis. Some buyers are interested in purchasing flood-damaged cars as restoration projects and can drive them for a few years after repairs. However, in the long run, these cars depreciate quickly and face difficulties with insurance claims. Safety is also a major concern, with risks like brake failure or sudden power loss. In short, buying and selling flood-damaged cars is legal and feasible, but honesty is essential, and buyers should conduct thorough research and avoid impulsive decisions.

[StRachel]

Technically, buying and selling flood-damaged cars is feasible, but the risks are substantial. After being submerged, electronic components are prone to oxidation and rust, and critical systems like the ECU (Engine Control Unit) can malfunction, leading to operational failures. Water ingress in the chassis and engine can leave hidden dangers, causing long-term corrosion that affects performance. Professional handling during repairs is necessary, which can be costly. When purchasing a used car, it's advisable to have it inspected for signs of flood damage, such as water stains on the interior or rust on metal parts. The safety risks are high, with flood-damaged cars frequently involved in accidents. From a technical standpoint, it's safer to opt for a normal, undamaged vehicle.