Damaged vehicles could flood Arizona
ADOT advises used-car buyers to do research
The widespread floods caused by Hurricane Harvey in Texas and Hurricane Irma in Florida could soon be affecting car buyers in Arizona.
The Arizona Department of Transportation is cautioning those in the market for a used car to keep in mind that many vehicles damaged by flooding in those states can easily end up in Arizona and be put up for sale. ADOT advised that anyone buying a used car through a private sale keep an eye out for water damage.
Buyers should note that if a car does have previous water damage, the title will specify “salvage” or “flood damage,” according to an ADOT press release.
However, scammers can easily remove flood history from the title of the vehicle.
Willie Hall, ADOT’s detective sergeant, said the agency saw this issue after the devastation of Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
“Flood-damaged vehicles that have been repackaged and dressed up are a common scam after major weather events like what we’ve seen recently,” said Hall.
ADOT said there are specific things a buyer must look for while checking a potentially flood-damaged car. Consumers need to pay close attention to the smell of
the vehicle, which can indicate mold in hidden areas. Look for any small areas where dirt or mold could be hard to clean. ADOT also advised that buyers examine all mechanical components, since water could have easily damaged the electrical system of the vehicle. Make sure there is no sign of rusting, a key indicator of water damage.
Hall said used-car buyers should “not sign anything until the vehicle has been checked over, bumper to bumper.”
ADOT urges anyone who may have been scammed to contact its 24-hour fraud hotline at 877-712-2370 or email fraud@azdot.gov.
“Flood-damaged vehicles that have been repackaged and dressed up are a common scam after major weather events like what we’ve seen recently.” WILLIE HALL DETECTIVE SERGEANT, ARIZONA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION