When it comes to vehicle damage, many people immediately think of external damage caused by a collision. But believe it or not, water can cause just as many problems as damage resulting from an accident. What’s worse is that you might not always know your vehicle has sustained water damage. This post from your junk car removal experts will teach you how to spot potential water damage.
Does my car have water damage?
There are several ways to tell if your vehicle has been damaged by excessive water exposure. Look out for any of these signs:
- Musty odor: The first sign that your car’s been exposed to water is an overwhelming musty smell. This odor might not be present when you first sit in it, but it will soon become apparent when you turn on the AC, as this smell often comes from the vents. While an air freshener may make the vehicle smell better for the time being, it’s not a long-term solution.
- Mismatched carpets: In addition to smelling water damage, you may also see it. If some sections of the carpet or upholstery are darker than others, your car could have water damage. Keep in mind that this damage could be hiding under seats, so be sure to check there if you notice a musty odor.
- Damp spots: You might be able to still see damp spots if your car was exposed to moisture recently enough. Again, if you smell that musty odor, check under the seat or floor mats for any damp areas. You may be able to resolve this problem yourself using a shop vac and cleaning solution, but you’ll need to act fast.
- Broken electronics: Excessive moisture can also take a toll on the vehicle’s electronics. If the radio doesn’t always work, or if the interior lights don’t come on, there could be moisture affecting the wiring. This problem can be fixed by a professional, but it may not be cheap to address.
- Foggy headlights and taillights: The same moisture that affects your electronics can also do damage to the headlights and taillights. The lamps may appear dull or cloudy, and even the best cleaning agents won’t be able to get them back to normal. You’ll need to bring your car to an auto shop to replace the lights, which isn’t always cheap.
- Excessive rust: Rusty spots are common in older vehicles, but if yours is on the newer side and you see rust, your vehicle has likely seen some water damage. Rust only gets worse over time if the problem isn’t remedied right away. If there’s a ton of rust all over the car, you should consider calling a pro for junk car removal.
What should you do if you have water damage?
Making repairs to correct water damage can cost a fortune in extreme cases. If you’ve asked yourself, “Does my car have water damage?” and the answer is “yes,” consider selling your vehicle to Lester’s Cash for Junk Cars. We pay top dollar for vehicles in any condition, and we’ll tow your car away at no cost to you. Call us today to see how much your car is worth.