If you’re in the market for a used car, you may want to be extra careful about flood-damaged vehicles. In the wake of disasters like Hurricane Harvey, there is bound to be an influx of flood-damaged cars on the market. And while some of these cars may have been properly repaired, others may have hidden damage that could cause big problems
Be aware of scams
Unfortunately, there are always people looking to take advantage of disaster victims. If you’re buying a car from a private seller, used cars in tucson make sure you see the car in person before you hand over any money. And be wary of anyone who is trying to sell a car that they claim is in “like new” condition but is priced far below market value.
Check for water damage
If you can, take a look under the hood and inside the car for any signs of water damage. Look for rust on metal parts, water stains on upholstery or carpeting, and a musty smell inside the car.
Have a mechanic inspect the car
Even if you don’t see any obvious signs of water damage, it’s a good idea to have a mechanic take a look at the car before you buy it. They may be able to spot hidden damage that you wouldn’t know to look for.
If you’re in the market for a used car, you might want to be extra careful if the vehicle was previously located in an area that was affected by flooding. While a car that’s been through a flood can seem like a great deal, there are a few things you should be aware of before making a purchase.
For starters, flood-damaged cars often have hidden damage that can be expensive to repair. Even if the car looks fine on the outside, used cars in tucson there could be major problems lurking under the hood. In addition, flood-damaged cars may have been totaled by insurance companies and then sold as salvage vehicles.
This means that the title of the car will reflect its salvage status, which could make it difficult to get insurance or sell the car down the road.