How to Not Get Suckered into Buying a Used Car With Irma or Harvey Flood Damage
The devastating impacts of both Hurricanes Irma and Harvey stand to affect a number of used cars headed to market, and automotive information giant Edmunds is out with some tips that consumers can use to ensure they are protected from buying a damaged vehicle.
"Roughly half of the vehicles with salvage titles are resold often in places where the flood never hit, and the sale of flood-damaged cars happens most often in private-party sales than on dealer lots," said Ron Montoya, Edmunds Senior Consumer Advice Editor. "Given that electrical and mechanical problems can potentially surface long after the seller is gone, used car buyers are at risk of owning an unreliable car with no recourse against the seller."
There are several signs consumers must be aware of when assessing if a used car has been affected by flood damage. Among the warning signs Edmunds offers are unusual musty or moldy odors, which can often be expelled from the vehicle's vents.
Discolorations in the car's carpeting such as large stains or even new upholstery meant to cover-up them up are also two red flags.
A third indication of flood damage is water build up, which is indicated by foggy headlights or a waterline in the engine compartment or trunk.
Other indicators buyers should heed as warning signs of flood damage are rust and chipping metal, and a buildup of dirt in unusual areas of the car's interior including the upper carpeted area near the glove compartment.
More of What's Trending on TheStreet:
