Bangkok: In a world where purchasing used cars is often seen as a financially savvy choice, consumers face the risk of acquiring vehicles that have been previously flooded. Social media has seen a surge in discussions about six methods to determine if a used car has been submerged.
According to Thai News Agency, the "Sure Before Sharing" center of MCOT sought verification of these methods by consulting Suramis Charoenngam, an automotive technology tester and expert. In an interview conducted on June 22, 2026, Charoenngam confirmed the validity of these techniques, providing a reliable guide for buyers to avoid deceitful dealerships. The following are the six critical inspection points:
1. Observe the Body and Hood Bolts: Scrutinize the bolts on the car's body and hood for small scratches or rust, indicative of water exposure, especially in older models.
2. Inspect the Front Beam and Welds: Look beyond surface cleaning to deeper areas, such as the front beam and welds, for water stains or damage that might have been overlooked.
3. Check the Carpets and Soundproofing Materials: Examine under the carpet edges for synthetic fiber or coconut-like underlay material, which can rot if the car has been flooded.
4. Pay Attention to the Accelerator and Brake Pedals: Note any unusual uniformity in paint on pedal components, which might be an attempt to hide rust.
5. Look for Water Stains in Crevices: Thoroughly inspect deep areas like under the dashboard, trunk carpet, or engine compartment fuse box for signs of rust or white scale.
6. Check the Seat Rails and for Musty Odors: Search for rust on seat rails and be alert for musty odors, which could be masked by strong air fresheners.
The guidance emphasizes the importance of detailed inspections and suggests purchasing from reputable dealerships that offer warranties or compensation plans. Such diligence will help ensure the acquisition of a safe and valuable used vehicle.