INDIANAPOLIS – Cars damaged by recent flooding may start flooding the used-car market soon. However, consumer advocates are putting out a warning for car buyers, and insurance companies are evaluating flood damaged vehicles, according to www.wishtv.com.

Cars that get water inside the dashboard are usually totaled. Some with lower water levels can be fixed. In some states, sellers are obligated to list on the title if a vehicle was salvaged or flood damaged. That’s something that people can also find by purchasing a vehicle history report.

Here are a few tips to spot a formerly flooded car:

• Check for strong odors: Does it smell musty, moldy or even a strong air freshener that might indicate a cover-up.
  

  
  

• The overall appearance: Dirt in unusual places,discolored carpet, or brand new upholstery.
  

  
  

• Look for evidence of water in unusual places, like fogging inside the headlights.