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For those of us in the market to buy a reliable used car, one of the risks which is seldom thought of, is that of buying a car which has sustained flood damage. Potentially any used car could be concealing this secret history.

Outwardly the car might be running without cause for concern. The engine may not have been damaged, but other parts currently in good working order can deteriorate in time.

Electrics and wiring are the most vulnerable. Wet carpet means wet wiring underneath. While the carpet may have been replaced after flood damage has occurred, the cost of re-wiring can be prohibitive and may therefore not necessarily have been undertaken. Onboard computer systems which tend to be placed under the dashboard area are also in a vulnerable position.

Over time, unprotected parts of wiring will rust, eventually causing a break in current. Sooner or later intermittent electrical glitches will occur, sensors will fail and red lights will start to flash. Trouble-shooting to find damaged wiring can be a time consuming and ultimately costly business.

Protect yourself by making a few straight forward checks to spot a potential flood car.

Remember, every used car is a potential flood damaged car. There is plenty of choice out there so never be rushed into a sale.

Rust on the metal parts of the underside of the driver and passenger seats should be an immediate turn-off.

It is normal for a small amount of rust to be present, but if the exhaust and underside of the car show extensive signs of rust it is a potential red flag.

It may sound funny, but if a car literally doesn't smell right, then walk away. The smell could be mould or damp.

Also, the brakes on a car are a dead give away for revealing potential flood water exposure. At any rate, inspecting the breaks on any used car is sound practise.

Check the fluids (oil and water) to ascertain whether water has penetrated the system. Look for a chocolate milkshake consistency in the oil and water, and a strawberry colour in oil, transmission (gearbox) and power steering fluids.

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