When flood waters rise high enough to submerge the engine compartment, it is likely the vehicle will be written off as a total-loss by the insurance company. The title of the vehicle will be stamped with a flooded or salvage label. Mechanics and body shops can refurbish the vehicle and sell it on the open used car market. The title will/should still have the flooded/salvage title or some indication that the car was at some point a complete loss. For some buyers, this can be a significant savings and a win-win deal for everyone as long as everyone is aware of vehicle’s history.

Much like anything else, there are “fraudsters” out there that will take these salvage/junk vehicles and thru a questionable process, regain a clean title. A clean title will allow the vehicle to be sold for a higher value than junk or salvage vehicles.

So here is the warning: if you are looking to purchase a used car, get the facts (i.e. Carfax.com) and perform your due diligence by having an independent mechanic check out the vehicle (not your cousin who does brakes). The last thing you want to do is get stuck over-paying for a car that is not what it was advertised to be. Be an informed shopper!

~ H2