Lithia Auto Stores offers tips on its website for those in the market for a new or used car can spot potential flood damage in vehicles.
Some sellers clean up flood-damaged vehicles and do not disclose the damage when selling the vehicle, the posting said. Many states require car sellers to disclose such information, but it doesn't always happen.
When checking out vehicles being offered for sale, here are some tips on spotting flood damage, according to the post.
Pull the carpet up inside the vehicle and check for moisture. Smell the carpet, seats and interior in general. If the car smells musty or moldy, it may have been damaged by flood waters. If the car smells heavily of cleaning supplies, it also may have been flood damaged.
Look inside the trunk and under the hood for mud or other debris that shouldn't normally reach such areas. Look at the undercarriage as well. Check every compartment and space within the car for moisture, dirt, debris or odor that could indicate the vehicle was flooded at some point.
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