Beware of Flood Damaged Cars Being Resold

Water is typically a good thing for your vehicle, helping the cooling system regulate the motor's temperature and keeping your car looking shiny and clean. However, water can turn into your vehicle's worst nightmare, especially when it comes to floodwaters. Floods can swiftly damage your car, transforming your once-tip-top vehicle into something practically worthless.
Even though the law requires titles of flood-damaged cars to be marked as salvage, some cars damaged by floods are sold without this warning. This deceitful practice is known as Title Washing. Unscrupulous sellers exploit legal loopholes by acquiring damaged cars inexpensively from states that don't demand disclosure, then transporting these vehicles to another state and obtaining a new, unblemished title.
The reality is that flood-damaged cars, once refurbished, can be challenging to identify without accurate documentation, and nearly half of them are resold. Here are some ways to avoid falling victim to this scam.

1. Buy from a reputable dealer

Stick to known car dealers who prioritize their reputation with customers and avoid engaging in dubious transactions.

2. Be wary of unrealistic deals

Check the list price for the vehicle model you're interested in. If an offer seems too good to be true, especially if it's significantly below market value, it's a red flag.

3. Get the car inspected by a licensed mechanic

A thorough inspection by a licensed mechanic can uncover hidden issues.

4. Inspect the car yourself

Use your keen eye to look for signs of flood damage, such as condensation inside the speedometer glass, rust damage inside door tracks or under seats, stains on the upholstery, water lines in the engine compartment or trunk, sand deposits under the seats, and a musty smell when you open the car door.

5. Get a background check

Utilize resources like the NICB's free online tool called VINCheck to identify if a car has been damaged.

Is your car damaged?

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