Look Out for Flood Damage When Buying a Used Vehicle

WASHINGTON -- October 8, 2014: Several regions of the United States have been bailing out after storms this summer, which means that some auto sales lots could become awash in flooded cars. Smart shoppers will want to take a look at these reminders from GEICO to make sure they don’t drive off with a rust-laced vehicle:

Order a vehicle history report – Search online services that offer detailed vehicle history, such as the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System.

Check the vehicle's VIN – The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) offers VINCheck, a free database that determines if a vehicle has been reported as stolen or salvaged.

Check with your DMV – Go to your state’s department of motor vehicles and request a title history report on the vehicle.

Look carefully at the title – Take note if the car has been titled several times over a short period or has been registered in a flood-affected area.

Have a professional take a look – Take the vehicle to a trusted mechanic to inspect it for flood damage before you purchase it.

Examine the vehicle yourself – check the spare tire well for standing water and be leery if a car smells musty or moldy or shows signs of rust. Also be suspicious of vehicles with recently shampooed carpets or brand new upholstery.