Does Water Inside the Cabin Count as a Flood-Damaged Vehicle?

[JulietteAnn]

Water inside the cabin does count as a flood-damaged vehicle, though the extent of flooding may vary. After water enters the driver's compartment, any submerged equipment should be promptly replaced to avoid long-term issues. Here are methods to identify flood-damaged and accident vehicles: 1. Inspect the door locks: Check for signs of forced entry, tampering, or adhesive residue. Use the key to test each door lock, ensuring they belong to the same set and operate smoothly. Difficulty in turning the key or near-breaking resistance may indicate rust in the central locking motor due to water damage. 2. Engine compartment: Examine the mounting brackets for interior lighting and signal lights for breaks or looseness. Inspect wire connectors and sockets—excessive mud deposits or rust spots suggest potential flood damage. 3. Engine compartment evaluation: Check wiring and vacuum lines above the engine block, looking for mud traces around ignition coils and spark plug gaps. Assess whether tubing/cracking matches the vehicle's age, verify fuel injector mounting integrity, and inspect springs for rust—all indicators of possible water exposure.