RICHMOND, VA — In the wake of recent flooding, CarMax, Inc., a retailer of used cars, advises how to avoid purchasing flood-damaged vehicles.
Buyers “should be aware that some businesses and individuals may try to sell salvaged and flood-damaged cars without revealing the vehicle history,” said Bryan Ennis, Nashville region vice president of purchasing for CarMax. “Flood-damaged cars that are not structurally or mechanically sound could be repaired, re-titled, and sold to unsuspecting buyers.”
CarMax’s purchasing team offers these ten tips for identifying a vehicle with possible flood damage. If any of these signs are identified, ask further questions to determine if flood damage occurred:
- Check for a moldy smell inside the car and feel the carpet for dampness.
- Be suspicious of an older car with a brand new interior or carpeting.
- Check for rust under the brake or gas pedals.
- Look for dirt or rust under the dashboard and floor mats.
- Inspect the bolts and screws under the seats for evidence of rust.
- Check the undercarriage for excessive rust.
- Check inside the trunk under the carpet and in the spare tire well area for rust, dirt, or sand.
- Look for corrosion, water marks, or a thin brown line on the exterior of the vehicle.
- Check to see if the electrical system works.
- Check the VIN number with AutoCheck or Carfax to see whether a flood claim has been filed or a salvage title has been issued on the vehicle.
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