If you’re buying a used car – watch out!

Buying a used car usually involves overlooking some imperfections...

...but if it’s been in a flood – keep on looking! Every year, tens of thousands of cars are damaged in floods and more than half of them end up back on the road. With this year’s record U.S. flooding, Carfax says every buyer should beware. Here are some things to look for:

• Check the trunk, glove compartment and under the seats for water damage, silt, mud or rust.

• Examine upholstery and carpeting closely. If it doesn’t match the interior or fits loosely, it may have been replaced.

• Turn the ignition key and make sure the accessory and warning lights and gauges all work properly.

• Test all the lights, wipers, signals, lighters, radio, heat and AC several times.

In 2008 alone, more than 100,000 cars in Texas and Louisiana were left underwater. That means over 50,000 of them wound up salvaged and likely sold in other states.