While many of the Harvey damaged vehicles will be scrapped, the National Insurance Crime Bureau expects some people to clean up and resell the vehicles to buyers who are not aware of the vehicles recent history.
Here are some tips for identifying a flood damaged vehicle:
- Unusual smells. Moldy or musty odors typically mean mold. Also, strong air freshener and/or cleaning solution smell may mean the seller is trying to hide the mold smell.
- Look for water rings and/or discoloration on the interior carpeting and seats.
- Look for water lines in the engine area or trunk.
- Fogging in the headlights or lamps.
- Inspect the undercarriage for rust.
- Dirt build up in odd areas like the glove compartment, center console, and/or dashboard.