A 2022 Dodge Charger Scat Pack, once a sleek and powerful muscle car, now sits in an auction yard, bearing the scars of a hail storm and flood. While insurance companies often label such vehicles as “total losses,” this Charger is surprisingly still drivable. However, the question remains: is it worth the investment?
The exterior of the car reveals the extent of the hail damage, with the hood taking the brunt of the impact. While PDR could likely address the dents on the fender, roof, and trunk, the flood damage is a far more significant concern. The water level rose to the dashboard, leaving behind remnants of grass and a lingering odor.
The engine compartment, likely submerged during the flood, shows signs of water vegetation and raises questions about the engine’s condition. Despite these challenges, the oil tank still contains oil, suggesting a glimmer of hope for a potential rescue. With a buy-it-now price of $20,000, the insurance company is taking a gamble.
The bidding on YouTube at the time of the video was significantly lower, indicating a potential bargain. However, the risks associated with a hail-damaged, flooded vehicle are substantial. Potential buyers must carefully weigh the potential costs of repairs, the risk of hidden damage, and the reliability of the car before making a decision.
The “RD” sticker on the front window indicated that Randy should expect a functional vehicle, but his hopes were quickly dashed. Despite months of sitting in the auction yard, the car’s interior still had a lingering odor. Randy’s optimism waned as he tried to start the engine, only to find it completely dead.
The gauges illuminated, and the trunk opened with the remote key, but the windows, electronics, and water level indicators were unresponsive. The car had been submerged in water. Even if it had been functional, Randy wouldn’t have paid the buy-it-now price due to the potential repair costs. Instead, he was considering the Dodge Charger Scat Pack for $4,000 to $4,500.
Powered by a 392-cubic-inch HEMI V8, the muscle car once boasted impressive performance. It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 4.3 seconds, complete a quarter-mile run in 12.4 seconds, and reach a top speed of 180 mph. However, these statistics were now relics of the past.
The car was a shell of its former self, incapable of moving under its power. The once-mighty HEMI engine was now silent, a testament to the car’s unfortunate history. Randy’s dream of owning a powerful muscle car had been shattered by the sight of this waterlogged, inoperable vehicle.
