Orlando, Fla. (Ivanhoe Newswire) — Every year, flood waters damage or destroy thousands of cars. Carfax estimates 454,000 flooded cars returned to the road from all natural disasters last year, and experts say ‘buyer beware,’ because many are eventually resold. Used vehicles
From the coastline to the mountains, hurricane Helene left as many as 138,000 cars with flood damage after it swept through six states.
After repairs, the vehicle may look ok, but Consumer Reports says it can take months or years for major water damage problems to show up.
Experts say before you buy, take a closer look. First, the carpets. Check for water stains or damp spots. If the car has any new carpet or upholstery, it could be a sign of previous water damage.
Next, if there’s a musty, mildew, or mold scent, don’t ignore it. Also be aware if it has an air freshener or has been sprayed with a fragrance. That could be covering something up.
Inspect the exterior lights and the instrument panel for signs of trapped moisture. They could also have a visible water line or appear foggy. Closely look at hard to clean places inside and under the hood for trapped mud or debris.
Once you have the vehicle identification number, you can do a Carfax report, check the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System, or the National Insurance Crime Bureau to review the vehicle’s history.
Consumer Reports says it’s important to buy from a reputable seller to help avoid these problems. Also, be cautious of buying used vehicles without a title or if the seller claims it was lost.
Contributors to this news report include: Lindsay Dailey, Producer; Bob Walko, Editor.
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Sources:
https://www.carfax.com/press/hurricane-helene
https://www.carfax.com/press/resources/flooded-cars
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/buying-a-car/beware-a-flood-of-flooded-cars-a1195019046/
