Georgia attorney general: Watch out for autos damaged from hurricane flooding

ATLANTA — Georgia’s attorney general is cautioning state residents to take steps so that they won’t be victimized by purchasing autos that were damaged in recent hurricane-related flooding and then re-entered into the used-vehicle marketplace.

Attorney General Chris Carr said flood-damaged cars, such as some that may have been damaged in hurricanes Harvey or Irma, are often sold at auction. While the auto’s title may indicate it has been salvaged or totaled, dishonest dealers may “title wash” the vehicle in another state, titling it there without making the required disclosure of damage.

Having the auto checked out by a reputable mechanic is a good precaution and a best practice in general.

“Consumers should always have a used vehicle inspected prior to purchase,” Carr said. “This is especially true at this time as an increased number of flood-damaged vehicles will be entering the marketplace in the wake of recent natural disasters.”

If a vehicle’s body, engine, transmission or mechanical parts have been submerged in water, it will probably have electrical problems, and the brakes, airbags and computer system may be impaired. Unfortunately, Carr said, this damage may not be apparent to the average consumer.

Carr has tips for consumers:

— Check the vehicle’s history by going to the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (www.vehiclehistory.gov) and entering the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This is the only database on which all auto insurers, salvage pools that auction off totaled cars, junkyards, recyclers and self-insured entities such as rental car companies in all 50 states are required by law to report total-loss vehicles within 30 days.

— Look at the title. Always ask to see the title of the car before you sign anything or hand over any money. Check to see whether the car has been branded as “flood,” “junk,” “salvage,” “rebuilt” or “reconstructed.”

— Look for signs of flood damage. A musty odor, water marks or faded fabrics may be a sign of flood damage. A strong detergent smell inside the car or in the engine may indicate that someone is trying to mask a mildew smell. Rust and metal flaking are another red flag. Check the upholstery, dashboard, glove compartment, trunk, inner doors, engine area, and under the seats and carpeting for mud or silt. Look for drainage holes beneath the car. Test and retest the ignition, lights, wipers, air conditioner, heater and all accessories.

— Get the car inspected by a mechanic. Have the vehicle thoroughly examined by an independent mechanic before you sign a contract or pay any money. If the dealer refuses to let you do that, don’t buy it.