Articles by Mark Hinchliffe

One of the dumbest reasons to buy a diesel is to save money. The maths often doesn't add up when you take into consideration the extra showroom cost versus potential fuel savings.But there are also some very intelligent reasons to buy diesel: you don't have to go to the servo as often, for one. BMW presents another great reason to buy a diesel - the 330d Coupe. It doesn't feel or sound like a diesel and it is an absolute joy to drive.It comes in under the Federal Government's 7L/100km cutoff so it qualifies for the 33 per cent luxury tax concession up to $75,000.At $94,700, its two-door diesel coupe comparably priced competitor are the Audi A5 Coupe 3.0 TDI at $91,900 and the much cheaper Mercedes C250 CDI coupe ($69,900) which is more economical, but down on power to both the BMW and Audi.It costs $10,886 more than the petrol-powered 325i, but has double the torque which makes it almost as puntable and pleasurable a drive as the 335i which costs $22,550 more.The 3 Series coupes are now standard with Dakota oyster-coloured leather, voice control, anti-dazzle mirrors and a better audio system.There are also many options available to personalise the vehicle, but they lift the ticket price substantially. The best way to add extra kit is to go for one of the option packages.For example, you can save more than 25 per cent with the Innovations Package which includes a range of LED light features, adaptive headlights and satellite navigation.Our test vehicle was fitted with the $8900 M Sport Innovations Package which includes M trim inside and out, adaptive headlights, a satnav with colour monitor, Harman/Kardon surround sound system, sports seats, voice control and sport suspension.It was also fitted with an electric glass sunroof ($2920) and one of 15 metallic paint options ($1840) which brings the list price up to a whopping $108,360, but still $8890 short of the 335i.The BMW turbo diesel has slightly more power than the Audi, but sips fuel at a slightly reduced rate (6.2L/100km compared with 6.6) and takes the same time to hit 100km/h (6.1s).Economy is aided by BMW EfficientDynamics features such as brake energy regeneration and electric power steering with Servotronic.Because it's a coupe the front doors are huge and that means the seat belt is a long way back. BMW gets around this with an automated mechanism that hands you the seat belt.This graceful coupe has all the proportions just right. It looks strong and muscular from every angle and the swooping roof doesn't impede rear headroom.There are three new metallic paint options lifting the choices to 15, an extra interior trim choice (bamboo grain anthracite) making it six options and nine wheel designs - four of them new - across three wheel sizes (17, 18 and 19-inch).Apart from six airbags and a crash-resistant shell, there is a raft of hi-tech primary safety gear to keep you on the black stuff. They include stability and traction control, cornering and dynamic brake control, and a brake function on the cruise control to prevent you from picking up too much speed down hills.The smooth-running 330d Coupe is almost undetectable as a diesel, except for the tachometer which shows a low 4500 rev limit and the diesel sign inside the fuel filler.Even when you wind the window down, there isn't the usual disharmonious exhaust note. It's actually quite fruity. The engine is a lusty performer from low revs with a quick and responsive transmission that deals well with the narrow power band of the turbo diesel.This makes for an effortless drive experience that leaves you feeling calm and collected, even when punting along at a good clip. All 3 Series point and shoot with aplomb (except for the convertibles) and the heavier diesel donk up front doesn't seem to introduce extra understeer.BMW has gone a long way to taking the torture out of its run-flat tyres and even its M Sport suspension by replacing the disc spring valves with coil spring dampers. Ride is firm but fair in most instances, considering the extremely low-profile tyres.However, our test drive took us through the NSW Northern Rivers area where some roads are a pocked as a teenager's face. On several occasions it hit the bump stops with a deafening bang and when we hit a rapid succession of jolts such as corrugations the suspension could not rebound fast enough to keep the wheels in solid contact with the road. The result was a nervous sideways twitch.The cabin is typical BMW fare with macho dashboard and lots of black and silver trim, a firm but supportive set of optional sports front seats and controls that take a little bit of getting used to, but are serviceable.There is only space for two in the back and the legroom is very limited when you have tall front-seat passengers. Yet it's not claustrophobic back there with plenty of headroom; a real surprise for a coupe. Cargo space is generous with a flat, carpeted floor.This diesel coupe is a real coup. It doesn't sound or feel like a diesel, but it accelerates and sips fuel like one. It's also stylish and safe.

Cruising just doesn't seem to be the right word for this bike. With its drag bars and 1783cc V-twin engine featuring massive 112mm forged aluminium-alloy pistons, the Suzuki VZR 1800 Boulevarde M109RZ is more like a cruise missile than a cruiser. This is a serious muscle bike.VALUEThere is currently $1000 cash back on the standard M109R ($18,990) but even at $19,490, the M109RZ has plenty of bang for your buck.In the metric (Japanese) arena, the blinged-up Yamaha Roadliner has a bigger engine, but costs $24,099, while Honda's VT1300 custom cruiser/chopper costs more at $19,990 and the Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 starts at $19,999, but has ABS.TECHNOLOGYThe Boulevard M109 is the most powerful cruiser Suzuki has produced. Its liquid-cooled fuel-injected 1783cc engine is strong and smooth and had the largest engine pistons of any production car or bike in the world until the Roadliner came along with its 1854cc V-twin.It features a compact dry-sump lubrication system that drops the engine down in the bike for a lower center of gravity and more stability. Drive comes via a clean, no-maintenance shaft which is smooth, but lacks the classic looks of a belt.Suspension is more like a sportsbike with upside-down forks, while the brakes are straight off Suzuki's sportsbikes featuring radial-mounted four-piston front brake calipers and dual-piston rear brake caliper.The instruments are split into two pods: a tank-mounted analog speedo with two LCD screens for odometer, dual tripmeters, fuel gauge and clock; and a forward-mounted LCD screen on the steering head that shows gear position and a digital representation of revs.In these days of "road safety" camera proliferation, the instruments should be the other way around so you can more easily see the speedo.DESIGNThe Z designation costs an extra $500 and adds bling such as polished chrome, an embossed seat and a special colour scheme of black with an orange centre stripe that makes it look like a redback spider.Rather than a classic cruiser look, this has futuristic appeal from its headlight pod to its rocket-style mufflers. Out back is the widest massive 240mm rear tyre yet used on a Suzuki motorcycle. The rear seat can be quickly switched for a cover to give it more spartan solo look.SAFETYWith its gutsy engine, it almost needs seatbelts. Realistically, it could do with ABS like the Kwaka.RIDINGIt looks smooth and modern and its engine is a perfect match. Mind you, at low speed, it surges a little, but the big V-twin has no wild vibrations at any speed. Wind on the throttle with due care because it accelerates with a slingshot effect.It is aided ably by an ultra-smooth five-speed gearbox that proves that large-capacity V-twins don't need to have agricultural gearboxes to cope with the enormous amounts of torque. It has tall ratios so there is no need for a sixth cog.With its inverted front forks with race-derived cartridge internals and massive 46mm stanchions, it handles nimbly for a long-wheelbased cruiser. Clearance is still an issue, but you can push the front into corners harder than most other cruisers.The single rear shock absorber has adjustable spring preload so you can set it for rider and passenger weight. Brakes are solid and incredibly strong yet have plenty of feel to prevent lock-up, which is handy since it doesn't have ABS. Riding position is more aggressive than most cruisers, with the rider leaning forward to reach the drag bars.VERDICTIts striking looks, sporty handling, powerful engine and great value make this a top option for power cruisers.Suzuki VZR 1800 Boulevarde M109RPrice: $18,990Warranty: 2yr/ unlimited kmService: 1000/6000kmEngine: 1783cc V-twinTransmission: 5-speed, shaft driveSuspension: upside-down forks, link rearBrakes: twin discs (front)Dimensions: 2480mm (L), 875mm (W), 1185 (H), 1710mm (WB), 705mm (Seat)Kerb weight: 347kgFuel: 19.5L tank 

The times are a-changing from polished chrome and studded leather to a grungy look of matte black and fat front tyres.It's a custom bike trend that has left behind the blinded-up Harley-Davidson Heritage Softail that used to be one of their top sellers.But to those who love its lashings of gleaming chrome, wide running boards, relaxed riding position and big leather saddlebags with tassels and studs, it remains a timeless classic.VALUEFavorable exchange rates have meant price reductions on many models. The Heritage has dropped about $2000 to come in under $30,000. With its long-distance capabilities and comfort it makes a good value alternative to a Road King tourer.Adding to its value is the quick-release windscreen that turns it from a tourer into a cruiser in seconds. Two-tone paint adds glam and $500 while custom paint costs an extra $1000. Even though the Heritage already comes with plenty of bling, there is a book as thick as the Bible filled with parts and accessories to further individualise your ride.TECHNOLOGYAll Softails now get the big 103cu (1690cc) engine from the Touring family which further enhances the "big-kay" capacity of this machine. Despite the extra torque the bigger engine provides, it still yields fuel economy of a respectable 5.6L/100km which can provide more than 300km of range, depending on whether you have a pillion and luggage on board.The LCD info screen now includes trip meters, odometer, range meter and a gear indicator and digital taco, all controllable from a toggle switch on the left handlebar.SAFETYThe ABS works with a discreet magnet in the wheel bearings which senses wheel revolutions. Rather than an ugly mechanical ring, it doesn't spoil the look of the big steel-laced wheels. It is a smooth and effective system with more stopping power on the rear than the front thanks to the low and rear-oriented centre of gravity.Your pillion will feel secure thanks to a thick and supportive sissy bar. However, there are no grab handles, unless you count the rider's "love handles".RIDINGUnless its raining or really cold, leave the windscreen behind. There js far too much wind buffeting even from about 70km/h. At higher speeds, it can also cause oscillation through the bars, especially when a semi passes in the opposite direction.And looking through the windscreen can be annoying when it is littered with bugs, or if you are tall and are peering through the top section where your vision is distorted. Without the windscreen, the big bike feels light and nimble in the front end for convenient low-speed maneuvres and provides clean air to the rider which doesn't cause fatigue unless riding long distances at 110km/h.Clearance is a problem even at carpark speeds with a lean angle of only 24.4 degrees on the left and 25.9 on the right. However riders will learn to slow down and lean out to keep the bike more upright. It may also be necessary to bolster the under-side of the big floorboards to prevent them disintegrating with time as they scrape away at the road.If you are not in a hurry, it is a relaxing and comfortable ride that will turn heads wherever it goes, even though it may not be the latest trend in custom bikes.VERDICTOld-school riders still have a great affection for this bike and with the addition of ABS and a more muscular engine, it is an attractive two-up proposition at under $30,000.Harley-Davidson Heritage Softail FLSTCPrice: $29,495Warranty: 2yr/unlimited km, roadside assistService Interval: 1600/8000kmEngine: 103 (1690cc) Twin Cam V-twin, 132NmTransmission: 6-speed, belt driveFuel: 5.6L/100km, 18.9L tankDimensions: 2405mm (L), 955mm (W), 1635mm (WB), 690mm (Seat), 131mm (Clearance)Weight: 341kg

This Is the first love child of German and Swedish/Italian parents. Former Swedish off-road bike manufacturer Husqvarna - now built in Italy and owned by BMW - has produced its first road bikes for more than 50 years.The Nuda 900 and 900 R are based on the BMW F 800 engine and layout, but powered up and stripped back. After all, Nuda stands for nude in Italian.VALUEThis is a cross between a naked bike and a super motard, so it competes with the likes of the BMW F 800 R ($13,900), KTM 990 Supermoto T ($18,990) and Ducati Hypermotard ($15,990-$20,990). At $13,995 for the Nuda and $15,995 for the R with fully adjustable Ohlins suspension, carbon fibre extras, stronger brakes and smaller front sprocket, it is a strong competitor. Luggage and other accessories are available, but cheaper if bought in packages such as touring ($1596-$2031), racing ($1305-$2176) or urban ($1015).Importer Paul Feeney, of the Paul Feeney Group on the Gold Coast, says Husqvarna is "heading for a premium brand in off and on road" and declares the first three containers (90 bikes) are already sold. Only 30 of the 52 Husky dealers nationwide have qualified to stock the new road bikes.TECHNOLOGYThe BMW parallel twin has been bored out from 798cc to 898cc to lift power from 64kW to 77kW and torque from 84Nm to 100Nm. It also gets new pistons, conrods, cam shafts, cylinder heads, valves and a balancer for less vibration and a totally different feel to the BMW bikes that use this engine.Husky has developed a comprehensive instrument pod with a lot of useful information, rather than the basic cycle-like instruments we have come to expect from their dirt bikes. Even the base model gets Sachs shocks and Brembo brakes with braided lines.DESIGNIt looks like a stick insect and retains a lot of Husky's off-road character with sharp angles, narrow girth, red cylinder heads and a high and hard seat. You can distinguish the R from the standard by the flash of racing red down its side.These bikes are 50mm shorter than the BMW with a steeper fork rake, combining for a sharp-steering machine and at 174kg it's also 3kg lighter, further adding to its nimble nature. Its big air intakes and F1-styled front fender and "tank" area make it stand out from other naked bikes.The base model gets a slightly stepped seat which is pure torture, while the flatter and higher R seat is surprisingly more comfortable ... but only just.SAFETYBMW's obsession with safety hasn't yet filtered through as the Husky does not get ABS. However, it's only a matter of time. It could also do with a slipper clutch to avoid back-wheel lock-ups caused by the high engine compression ratio of 13:1, although some may enjoy the effect of "backing" it into corners.The Brembo brakes are strong with the R a little too touchy and powerful. Riders can also switch to a rain mode which softens the power delivery.RIDINGOnly tall people need apply. Nuda sits 870m high at the seat, but a low-seat option drops that 16mm, while the R is 875mm-895mm depending on rear shock adjustment. However, it's a comfortable upright position with wide bars and familiar controls. Peak power is exciting, although not scintillating.Most riders will enjoy the rush of speed from the brutish torque that lofts the front wheel with ease from low speeds and in the first three gears. You rush through the slick close-ratio box and just ride that wave of torque. Neutral is easy to find.It steers quickly, yet the wide bars provide high-speed stability. The stiff suspension of the standard finds it chattering sideways across high-frequency bumps. Somehow the stiffer, yet faster-acting Ohlins suspension works much better.Feeney backed the clickers off a couple of settings, but it could have done with more over the rough northern NSW roads on the national press launch. Like the BMW, it has an underseat fuel tank to centralise the weight for better balance. It only takes 13 litres of fuel for a claimed range of 250km, but one bike ran out of fuel on the launch at the 200km mark and the rest were running on vapours. When it's fueled up and running there is no better exhaust noise - like a growling wolf. It's surprising it passes the noise tests.VERDICTGreat fun for short blasts, but only if you are tall. I can't see too many riders fitting it with luggage and venturing too far.Husqvarna Nuda 900Prices: $13,995 ($15,995, R)Warranty: 2 yrs, unlimited kmService interval: 10,000kmEngine: 898cc parallel twin, 77kW/100NmTransmission: 6-speed, chain driveFuel: 13L tankEconomy: 3.9L/100km (@ 90km/h), 95 RONDimensions: 2190mm (L), 895mm (W), 1220mm (H), 860-895mm (Seat), 1495mm (WB)Dry weight: 174kg 

More than 60 per cent of drivers aged 18-24 rate older drivers as the most dangerous group of drivers, according to Newspoll research conducted for GIO Insurance.  The national survey of 3740 people also found that 52 per cent of drivers aged 50 and over believe younger drivers are in the top two dangerous groups, closely trailing cyclists (57 per cent). Most drivers rated their own age group as a lesser danger on the road, at 36 per cent of younger drivers and 32 per cent for older drivers.  Twenty-one-year-old Jemma Ford agrees with the survey, saying older drivers have scared her when she is driving her pink Toyota Yaris on to the freeway.  "When I get on the freeway they are doing about 70 in 110 zone and its quite dangerous,'' she says. "I understand they are being cautious, but it does cause some problems. "I've seen drivers around me get frustrated and do silly overtaking, causing more danger.''  Former public servant Bill King, 74, agrees that older drivers who have lost their confidence shouldn't be on highways.  "I don't consider myself an older driver, but when they get to 80 and above they become fragile and are over cautious on the road and might be doing 10-15 kays under the speed limit annoying the hell out of people who want them to go quicker,'' he said.  "If they are blocking the right hand lane then they are losing their confidence and shoudn't be driving on the highways and freeways.'' But he says younger drivers are his biggest worry with their "risk-taking behaviour''. "My principal concerns are P-platers speeding past you like the police are chasing them.'' He is also concerned about tailgating truck drivers and he's not alone.  The survey found cyclists were rated as the most dangerous type of road user by 54 per cent of all drivers, followed by taxi drivers (45 per cent), motorcyclists (44 per cent) and truck drivers (37 per cent).  GIO spokesperson Duncan Bone said safety on the road meant drivers had to place trust in other road users. "Ultimately the only actions we can control are our own,'' he said. "People need to concentrate more on their own driving, rather than other road users.'' ROAD DANGERS Cyclists: 54% P Platers: 49% Young drivers: 47% Older drivers: 45% Taxi drivers: 45% Bikers: 44% Truck drivers: 37% 4WDs: 33% Learners: 30% Pedestrians: 25% * Source: Newspoll

Honda CR-Z Sport and Toyota Camry go head-to-head in this comparative review.

Mazda 2 Neo and Kia Rio go head-to-head in this comparative review.

Spring is in the air and it's time to take the convertible for a ride. Not the four-wheeled kind, but the Harley-Davidson Dyna FLD Switchback. It's called a Switchback because in less than a minute it goes from a hardbagger tourer with windshield to a stripped-down , laid-back boulevarde cruiser. VALUETwo bikes in one makes this an attractive value proposition. It's also keenly priced at $25,595 ride away, which compares with its main competitors, the Victory Cross Country (hardbagger) $26,995 (plus on-road costs) and Triumph Rocket III Touring $25,990 (+ORC) which also feature quick-release windshields and hard panniers. Harley Australia spokesman Adam Wright also expects it to cannibalise sales fo their Road King and Heritage Softail. But with a low 663mm seat and relatively light weight of 316kg (dry), he expects to attract more female buyers.TECHNOLOGYThe new Dyna range now comes with the Twin Cam 103 (1690cc) engine rather than the 96 (1573cc) in all but the Street Bob and Super Glide Custom.It's still down on capacity to the Victory (1731cc) and the whopping 2.3-litre Triumph, but it's 67kg lighter than the Victory and 46kg less than the Triumph. It's also 42kg thinner than a Road King. That makes power-to-weight a good proposition for two-up hauling, although the compromise is in the gearing which is tall for touring, rather than for lower-speed cruising. The two-into-one exhaust dispenses with the butterfly valve and is very quiet at 91.5dB. Legal Screamin' Eagle replacements are also available.Fuel economy is about 5.6L/100km which gives passable touring range from the 17.79-litre tank off the Street Bob. It comes with a toggle switch on the left handlebar to flick through info on the LCD screen including odo, trip, clock, range and gear/revs. Harley tech manager Scott Cain says weight has been kept down by the generous use of aluminium and a body control module that dispenses with some wiring and fuses. DESIGNThis has classic Dyna looks harking back to Willie G's first model in 1971. It features cigar-shaped covered twin springs/shocks which are easier to clean and match the cartridge-style forks. The old-school fenders are full and the adjustable mini-ape handlebars match the traditional look as well as being very comfortable especially when pulled back. Weight has also been kept low with hollowed black cast-alloy wheel spokes which look like American muscle car mags. The windshield is slightly smaller than the touring models. RIDINGA convoy of riders on the media launch in the Sunshine Coast hinterland last week headed down the twisty Conondale Range to be confronted by a car overtaking a truck up hill over double lines. Thankfully the ABS averted disaster. Best of all, I didn't hear or feel it working, just experienced its awesome stopping power, even when moving on to the gravel shoulder. There is also limited fork dive under heavy braking.Clearance seems to be the only obstacle in cornering with the full-sized footboards touching down frequently. The new front-end geometry, preload-adjustable rear shocks with dual-rate springs and choice of sensible tyre geometry make this a quick-turning and stable handler. It has a plush ride and is untroubled by road corrugations or big hits. The mini ape-hanger bars make steering input light and easy. They are adjustable so most riders should be able to find a comfortable all-day-riding position. Comfort is also assured with a thickly padded and wide custom-stitched rear seat, although grab handles would be preferable to the seat strap.Most buyers will probably option up with a sissy bar, anyway. The windshield creates too much buffeting. I'd only leave it on in cold, wet conditions.VERDICTIt's a convertible, but not a compromise, except for the gear ratios. It will tour and cruise with poise and ease, and the price is right.Harley-Davidson FLD Dyna SwitchbackPrice: $25,595 (ride away)Warranty: 2-year/unlimited kmService interval: 8000kmEngine: air-cooled, 1690cc Twin Cam 135NmTransmission: 6-Speed Cruise DriveEconomy: 5.6L/100kmDimensions: 2357mm (L), 663mm (Seat), 1595mm (WB)Tyres: 130/70B18; 160/70B17Fuel: 17.8L tank, 5.6L/100kmDry weight: 316kg

While parent company KTM ventured into road bikes a few years ago and BMW-owned Husqvarna is planning its first all-road bike, Husaberg is concentrating on its core product. The 2012 model year will therefore be 100 per cent enduro with an extra entry level two-stroke TE125, but deleting the FX450 motocross and FS570 supermoto from the range.  Husaberg Australia marketing coordinator Greg Chambers says the 125 is not yet confirmed for Australia. "We are currently gauging public interest," he says. "The high-performance 125cc off-road market isn't very large in Australia. "Junior enduro riders suit this model but a lot of riders opt for the four-stroke 250 machines these days.  "That's a shame as the two-stroke 125 machines are extremely light, nimble and make for a really exciting ride. "One day we'll get past that `bigger is better' mentality and ride bikes for their fun factor."  The confirmed two-stroke enduro line-up is TE 250 and 350, while the four-stroke line-up of FE 390, 450 and 570 remains. Chambers says prices are yet to be announced.  "We aren't expecting a price rise," he says. The 2012 two-stroke range comes with engine protection (except the TE125), frame protection and handguards as standard.  The four-stroke models now have engine and frame protection, MX handguards and new graphics and colours. Chambers says they sell more four-strokes, although the two-stroke is enjoying "a real resurgence".  He does not expect a drop business from deleting the motocross and supermoto models. "These models are very niche," he says "We had run outs on these models and there are only a couple left around Australia." Husaberg is dropping $3000 on the FS 570 and $2000 on the FX 450.  The decision to drop the supermoto bikes from the line-up is reflected in sales performance with sales almost halved to just 11 in the first quarter of this year. Meanwhile, Husaberg's off-road sales are up 10.2 per cent to 519. Husaberg Australia competes in the E3 class of the Australian Off-Road Championship with Geoff Braico on an FE 570 and is about to compete in the famous Finke Desert race with past champion Ryan Branford also riding an FE 570.  The company started in Sweden in 1988 and was bought by Austrian company KTM in 1995. Husaberg motorcycles have since been developed and produced at the KTM factory in Mattighofen, Austria, but the motorsport department remains in Sweden.

In the wake of floods and storms in Queensland and NSW this year, buyers have been warned that some cars may be sold without their damage history being declared.  David Scognamiglio, boss of consumer vehicle research site carhistory.com.au, says buyers can be caught out not realising that most vehicles deemed statutory write-offs cannot be repaired legally and warranties are instantly void.  "But that doesn't stop some independent sellers trying to rip off unsuspecting buyers," he says. "There are likely to be thousands hitting the market in the next few months. "We've already seen them at a lot of auctions for flood-damaged cars. Pickles in Geelong, alone, has 500 coming up later this month.  "In 2011 after the Queensland floods and cyclones we saw a 20 per cent increase in written-off and flood-damaged vehicles." Insurance companies yesterday did not have official figures of flood-damaged vehicle claims but say that with widespread flooding across most eastern states so far this year it could be thousands.  The Motor Trades Association of Australia has also warned that many of these vehicles could be cleaned and repaired and put back on the market without buyers being made aware. MTAA senior policy officer Colin Duckworth said the problem would be solved if all states and territories could agree on a single definition for a flood-damaged vehicle.  He said the new Personal Property Securities Register includes a variety of car history such as whether it is lost, stolen, encumbered or a damaged write-off. Buyers can do a PPSR vehicle check online through the Department of Insolvency and Trustee Service in the Attorney General's department at a cost of $3.70. Motorists must supply the vehicle identification number (VIN) or chassis number.  "But the problem is that at this early stage there are inconsistencies in the information available," Duckworth said. NSW has the toughest restrictions on write-offs preventing them being registered anywhere in Australia, but Scognamiglio says there are even ways around those restrictions.  "You can't register a written-off vehicle unless you are licensed to repair them and it is repaired to a certain standard, or if you have owned it longer than five years you can repair it. "If you really want to get them back on the road, there is a way." Private owners without comprehensive insurance could also clean up a submerged car and sell it without the vehicle being declared flood damaged.  If it's written off by the insurance company it falls into the range of notifiable vehicles, but if it's older than 15 years or a private vehicle not fully insured, owners are able to clean them up and sell them. "In many cases the salvageable cars are simply washed and offered for sale as they stand and can range from driveable to barely recognisable," Scognamiglio said.  While reputable dealers advertise cars as flood damaged, others may be offered for sale without buyers being told of the damage. "As the market fills with more flood damaged vehicles and with many ways the seller can conceal the history, it's absolutely necessary for buyers to know what to look for to check for water damage," Scognamiglio said.  Cars are often sold in locations far from their origin, so buyers across all states and territories need to be aware of this issue, he said. Flood-damaged vehicles sold at auction may not carry manufacturer warranties, or may only have conditional manufacturer warranties. BUYER BEWARE Tips for buyers to check a car for flood damage: Look in the glove box for a tide mark. Check behind the dashboard and under the seat for signs of water or mud.  Ensure there is no debris in suspension components. Open the fuse box and check for debris or rust. Lift seat covers and inspect original fabric.  Inspect the carpet and check for musty/damp smell. Check for signs of water entry in the engine/driveline and start the engine. Check that the vehicle can be reregistered. Perform a vehicle history check at www.ppsr.gov.au or carhistory.com.au