Feb 1, 2006 1:47 pm US/Eastern
3 On Your Side: Flooded Cars
by Jim Donovan
PHILADELPHIA (CBS 3) ―
A lot of people buy used and this year there is something they really need to look out for.
3 On Your Side's Jim Donovan explains.
It's estimated that over 200,000 cars damaged by Hurricane Katrina will be repaired and make their way north to unsuspecting consumers.
"Make sure that you do your homework, these cars will find their way into Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware," stated Craig Kimmel, a lemon law attorney.
He offered this advice on how to spot a flood car:
- If the outside of the vehicle shows signs of water penetration, or water damage or maybe even a water line on the outside of the vehicle.
- Beware if half of the wheel looking like its rusted and the other half of the wheel looking like it's clean.
- Look at the rugs of the vehicle. Are they moist? Does it smell moldy? Do you see some evidence of air fresheners? That might be a little over kill.
- Look in the trunk. Pull up any mats and look under the spare tire.
- Is anything wet, damaged, or stuck to the bottom of the car? That will show water damage too.
Another way to protect yourself is to get the car inspected before you buy. It's worth the money and any dealer that won't let you inspect a car - is not worth buying from.
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