CARFAX estimates the widespread flooding across Florida and the Carolinas in the wake of Hurricane Ian, potentially damaged as many as 358,000 vehicles. Used-car shoppers need to be aware that these waterlogged vehicles could resurface anywhere around the country.
“We are seeing these flooded cars show up all around the country, putting unsuspecting buyers at risk,” said Emilie Voss, CARFAX spokesperson. “Cosmetically these cars might look great, but if you don’t know what to look for, it’s nearly impossible to tell they are literally rotting from the inside out. Floodwater can cause mechanical, electrical, health and safety issues in a vehicle even if it was submerged for only a short time.”
CARFAX has a free Flood Check® tool, a national map that shows where flood cars have washed up, and a flood damage checklist at carfax.com/flood.
