Windy A. VanCurenRichmond.comMonday, October 17, 2005In the aftermath of hurricanes Katrina and Rita, and with the recent flooding in the Northeast, AAA warms consumers to watch out for flood damaged vehicles in the used car market. Cars that have been seriously damaged in one state can wind up in another.
Flooded vehicles are sometimes cleaned up by unscrupulous sellers without disclosure of flood damage. In most states this is illegal, but unfortunately some vehicles still slip through the system. Dishonest sellers might "wash" a title as vehicles move around the U.S.
A telltale sign of flood damage may be a damp or musty odor in the trunk or interior. Dried mud on under-the-hood components or rust underneath the dashboard should also send up a caution flag to the buyer. Other signs include water stains on the rug or upholstery, mismatched upholstery and droplets in light fixtures. In addition, buyers should look at the VIN number on the vehicle title and make sure it matches the number etched on the driver's-side door post and on the driver's-side dashboard near the window.
"The buyer should protect themselves by checking the car's title history," said Martha Rowe Mitchell, manager of Public and Government Relations for AAA Mid-Atlantic. Mitchell warns against purchasing an "as-is" vehicle. AAA Mid-Atlantic offers the CARFAX vehicle history report on its Web site at www.aaamidatlantic.com.
A history report offers the motorist the best protection against costly, hidden repairs. Most states, but not all, issue flood damage or salvage vehicle titles.
To further assist motorists, AAA suggests having an auto repair technician inspect the vehicle. AAA Mid-Atlantic independently inspects and approves qualified repair facilities in its Approved Auto (AAR) program. These AAR shops allow AAA to investigate and resolve any issues that might be experienced by a AAA member. The nearest AAR facility is also listed on the AAA Mid-Atlantic Web site.
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