DMV News Releases

DMV Offers Tips for Water Damaged Vehicles
Look for Flood Damage During Future Car Purchases

RICHMOND - The flooding resulting from Tropical Storm Ida serves to remind Virginia vehicle buyers to conduct a water-damage inspection before buying used or new vehicles.

"Nearly one out of every three car sales occurs directly between individuals," said Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Commissioner D.B. Smit. "I caution consumers who plan to purchase a vehicle in the future to be aware of the possibility of water damage."

The dangers of water-damaged cars are often hidden. Aside from mold and rust, electrical systems could erode and fail over time. Computer sensors could be damaged, and safety protections like air bags could fail in a crash.

If a motor vehicle has more than $1,000 in water damage, Virginia law requires the owner to notify DMV, even if the owner plans to keep driving the vehicle. Violators of this law face either jail time for up to one year, a fine of up to $2,500, or both. Also, if a water-damaged vehicle is re-sold and is later involved in a crash, the buyer could sue the seller if the water damage was not reported to DMV and it contributed to the crash.

While there is no sure method to test for vehicle flood damage, here are several inspection tips that may help detect significant water damage.

• Examine the interior and the engine compartment for evidence of water and grit from suspected submersion.
• Check for recently shampooed carpet, and check under the floorboard carpet for water residue or stain marks from evaporated water not related to air-conditioning pan leaks.
• Look for rusting on the inside of the car and under interior carpeting, and visually inspect all interior upholstery and door panels for evidence of fading.
• Check under the dashboard for dried mud and residue, and note any evidence of mold or a musty odor in the upholstery, carpet or trunk.
• Check for rust on screws in the console or other areas where water would normally not reach unless submerged.
• Check for mud or grit in alternator crevices, behind wiring harnesses and around the small recesses of starter motors, power steering pumps and relays.
• Complete a detailed inspection of the electrical wiring system, looking for rusted components, water residue or suspicious corrosion.
• Inspect the undercarriage or other components for evidence of rust and flaking metal that would not normally be associated with late model vehicles.

While these inspection suggestions will not detect flood damage in every case, they do provide some information to protect consumers from purchasing a vehicle damaged by floodwaters. If you are purchasing a vehicle that you suspect may have been damaged by flooding, consider having it inspected by a licensed mechanic.

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