Be Vigilant When Buying A Used Car

Louisiana's Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon wants used car purchasers to be reminded to be on the lookout for cars that might have been flooded in Tropical Storm Imelda.

There were many areas of Southeast Texas that were flooded in September due to the storm, and Donelon wants consumers to know that unscrupulous people may try to pass these cars off as being undamaged.

If you are looking to purchase a used car also do your research and be sure to ask for the original title to the vehicle where either it's an RV, car, truck or boat.

Donelon says,

"One month ago, Tropical Storm Imelda caused extensive flooding in Texas and as a result, we caution Louisiana buyers to looks for signs of water damage in vehicles they are considering for purchase. Often, when a deal is too good to believe, there's a reason.

Donelon says you should be cautious if the vehicle has the following:

• Rust
• Mismatched carpet
• Mismatched headliners
• Dirt/Debris under the seats
• Dirt/Debris were the spare tire is found
• Stains
• Mildew

Donelon says you can get a free check to see if the vehicle has been listed as a total loss by clicking here.

He also recommends that you run a history report on the vehicle, and you should always ask to see the physical title for a vehicle.

The title has to include either salvaged or non-reparable status.

Donelon says you should also consider having the vehicle checked out by a mechanic that you trust.