Can Flood-Damaged Vehicles Be Detected by Insurance?
2 Answers
Flood-damaged vehicles can be detected by insurance. Flood-damaged vehicles are also known as water-damaged cars. Below is a detailed introduction to water-damaged cars: 1. Not considered a water-damaged car: If the water level does not reach the chassis, it is not classified as a water-damaged car. 2. Soaked car: When the water level reaches the chassis, it is considered a soaked car, which is the mildest form of water damage. Water entering the cabin only wets the carpets and floor mats. The carpets, wiring harnesses on the floor, and air conditioning ducts need to be cleaned or replaced. 3. Semi-submerged car: When the water level nearly reaches the wheels, it is considered a semi-submerged car. Water enters the cabin and soaks the seat cushions and areas below. Besides the carpets, wiring harnesses, and air conditioning ducts, electronic components inside the seats, such as heating wires and adjustment motors, may be water-damaged. Additionally, the airbag control unit and seat belts may be affected. Other electrical devices, such as cigarette lighter plugs and USB ports in the central console, may also suffer water damage. 4. Fully submerged car: When the water level rises above the dashboard, it is considered a fully submerged car. If the water level exceeds the dashboard or even the roof, it indicates that nearly 90% of the vehicle's electrical equipment has been submerged, and the engine has also been water-damaged.
I had a chat with some friends in the insurance business when I was getting my car repaired, and they told me that flood-damaged vehicles can indeed be detected through insurance records. When insurance companies handle claims, they meticulously record the type of accident in their system. If a car has been compensated for water damage, the record will indicate a natural disaster or flood incident. Since then, I've been extra cautious when buying used cars. I input the VIN into third-party platforms to check the records, and I actually found a car with an insurance claim detail stating "engine repair due to heavy rainfall." So now, I always advise friends to check the insurance report before purchasing a car. However, it's important to note that only formal insurance claims will show up in the records. If the owner paid for repairs out of pocket or didn’t have insurance, there won’t be any trace. Honestly, flood-damaged cars pose significant hidden risks—after three months of water exposure, electrical systems are prone to short circuits, and the engine may rust.
