In 2022, Hurricane Ian damaged upwards of 358,000 vehicles throughout several states, according to CARFAX.

After the devastation of hurricanes Helene and Milton in the Southeast, this year is already approaching similar numbers.

CARFAX estimates that the 2024 hurricane season has resulted in approximately 347,000 vehicles with flood damage so far.

After Hurricane Helene damaged 138,000 vehicles across several Southeastern states, Hurricane Milton damaged 120,000 more in Florida, the company estimates.

Plus, around 89,000 had already been swamped by smaller summer storms, CARFAX said.

“Now, thousands of these vehicles may already be put up for sale, cleaned up by potential scammers to be sold nearby, or thousands of miles away from the original incident to unsuspecting buyers,” the company warned in a news release. “… Water damage can cause costly mechanical and electrical issues and even pose risks to health and safety.”

Those interested in buying a used car can check carfax.com/flood to access the CARFAX Flood Check tool. The company also urged car buyers to have a trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle and also take it for a test drive.

CARFAX noted seven signs that a vehicle has been flooded, as listed below:

  • Damp carpets
  • A musty odor inside, sometimes covered up with a strong air-freshener
  • Upholstery or carpeting that may be loose, new, stained or mismatched
  • Rust around doors, under the dash, on pedals or in hood and trunk latches
  • Mud or silt in the glove compartment or under the seats
  • Brittle wires under the dashboard
  • Fog or moisture in interior lights, exterior lights or on the instrument panel