Don't be trapped into flood damaged cars

NRMA says the following may help to identify any water damage:

• Water or condensation in exterior lights
• 'Tide marks' at the carpet and door trims
• Dampness or musty smells
• Shrunken carpet
• Missing or ill-fitting drain plugs
• Surface rust at brackets under dash and under seats, although some light rust here is considered normal for older cars
• Difficult-to-operate door locks, ventilation controls and switches

An owner who wants to keep a flood-damaged vehicle should:

• Free drain holes from obstructions
• Check for dampness or mould and replace carpets if affected
• Listen for noises that get louder with speed and time, which could indicate imminent bearing or driveling failure

(Source: "Open Road")