Manheim urges appraisal vigilance to spot flood damaged part-exchanges

Manheim is reminding dealers, trading in the areas of the UK ravaged by floods, to be extra cautious when taking in part-exchanges over the next few months, as they may have serious water damage.

Thousands of vehicles submerged in flood water in the Severn Valley, Mid-Wales, West and East Midlands, Yorkshire and the North East are likely to be coming back into the used market in the coming weeks.

Dealers who do not carry out a comprehensive vehicle appraisal on every customer part-exchange could be stuck with flood damaged cars and expensive repair bills.

“Many cars will be insurance write-offs, but we already know that some less-damaged vehicles are already being offered as part exchanges against new and used vehicle sales,” explained Alan Cureton, Manheim’s Dealer Sales Director.

“We urge dealer staff to be extra vigilant when valuing these part-exchanges rather than risking a mistake that could cost them dearly,” he added.

Cureton also recommends that dealers re-assess any vehicles that were appraised in deals done prior to the floods, but where the new car hasn’t yet been delivered to ensure they are also not affected.

“There are plenty of tell-tale signs which dealers can use to identify problem vehicles but it’s up to the dealer to make the effort to spot them,” added Cureton.

Manheim’s simple check list includes –

Condensation on the inside glass
Certain electrical components not working including hi-fi speakers, electric windows and central locking
Dashboard warning lights malfunctioning
Damp in the spare wheel recess
Sediment in the engine compartment
Evidence of previously wet service packs
The unmistakable odour of damp carpets and upholstery
Erratic engine tickover and ignition problems