November 21, 2012

ATLANTA, GA – The Office of the Attorney General and the Governor’s Office of Consumer Protection are warning consumers who are in the market for used cars to beware of flood-damaged vehicles in the wake of Hurricane Sandy. Many previously-flooded vehicles are recycled into the economy and end up being sold at auction. They may then be sold at used car lots or through online classified ads.

Cars that were flooded in Hurricane Sandy may have been written off as “salvage” or “totaled” by insurance companies in other states, though this may not appear on their titles.  With new or recently-shampooed upholstery and carpeting, and perhaps some minor body work, the damage on these vehicles may be very well disguised and difficult for even a professional to detect.  Nonetheless, electrical problems are practically guaranteed, and the brakes, airbags and computer system may have been seriously compromised.

If you are shopping for a used car, truck, van or SUV, be vigilant for signs of flood damage in the vehicle you are considering purchasing.   A musty odor may be noticeable, and water marks may be evident or fabrics faded.  Metal may be flaking prematurely, and rust, mud and grit may be hidden in the crevices where water would not normally reach.  Check the upholstery, dashboard, glove compartment, trunk, inner doors, engine area, and under the seats and carpeting.  Look for drainage holes beneath the car, and check gauges and the condition and flexibility of all wires, including those below the dash.  Have someone do a close inspection of the alternator crevices, behind wiring harnesses, and around the small recesses of starter motors, power steering pumps and relays.  Test and retest the ignition, lights, wipers, air conditioner, heater and all accessories.

Always ask to see the title of the car before you sign anything or hand over any money. Check to see whether the car has been branded as “flood”, “junk”, “salvage”, “rebuilt” or “reconstructed”.

Check the vehicle history by going to the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (www.vehiclehistory.gov) and entering the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This is the only database where all auto insurers, salvage pools that auction off totaled cars, junkyards, recyclers and self-insured entities such as rental car companies in all 50 states are required by law to report total loss vehicles within 30 days. The cost for a report ranges from $3 to $13.

As with any used vehicle purchase, have the car examined by a trusted mechanic before you pay any money for it.  

If you believe you have purchased a flood-damaged vehicle, contact the Governor’s Office of Consumer Protection at 404-651-8600 or 1-800-869-1123 (toll-free in Georgia, outside of the metro Atlanta calling area).