Is Rusty Seat Rails a Sign of a Flood-Damaged Car?

[VonChloe]

Rusty seat rails do not necessarily indicate a flood-damaged car; it could be caused by long-term lack of lubrication. Identifying a flood-damaged vehicle isn't about surface observations but checking for yellow mud under the car's carpet and signs of water damage on the engine compartment's fireproof insulation. While flood-damaged cars can be repaired to some extent, even after repairs, they pose serious risks. The longer the immersion time, the higher the likelihood of malfunctions. Some sand and gravel cannot be completely removed and may remain in gears or belts, leading to premature wear of certain components. Repairing a flood-damaged vehicle involves removing seats, interior trim, and panels to drain water and clean mud. The engine must also be dismantled to inspect electronic components, especially checking for damage to the computer motherboard.