MNDan

I am looking for a used A4 Avant. I came across a 2000 A4 Avant 1.8 5-speed with 4K miles for 19,995 US. It happens that the car was flooded. I talked to someone who looked at it and drove it. He said it drove great and he couldn't see any water damage. Apparently the insurance company totaled the vehicle. From what I understand, the Audi warranty is void. Not sure yet what options it has, but I am planning on taking a look at it tomorrow.

Does any one have any thoughts on vehicles with water damage or things to look for? Thanks in advance.

-Dan

Stang Guy

like coroded wiring, serious structural rust, and a musty smell. Water and silt can get in every little crevice, including inside the frame and other hollow components. My advice - stay away from it, unless you want to deal with all of the problems that may result later on. Look at it this way, if the insurance company totalled it that tells you how badly it was damaged. Do you really want to get a $20K car that has been totalled?

EdP

You WILL regret buying it.

Dead

..was that if it got as high as the dash they would total it due to all the electrical components . A lot depends on what was done as soon as the car was recovered. If it sat with the windows up and it was warm outside condensation would get into everything. You can have some problems pop up .Bearing failures and all kind of electrical problems due to corosion. Smell would be evident right away. Would smell funky or have some strong chemical/air freshner smell they used to mask the odor.You can find the high water mark a lot of times. Look under the dash,pull a door panel,pull the trunk panels,look in the engine bay.
A lot will depend on how competent the people who performed the repairs were.
It can be a good buy but usually is a long term nightmare.
If you are not a mechanic , you should probably steer clear.
It will be a gamble either way.
The question is do you feel lucky?
And can you afford to take the hit?

MNDan

Re: Thanks to everyone for the advice. I am going to hold off. (NT)

Jon C

Run away. with modern electronics you are buying potential nightmares.