With the recent rash of floods and bad weather around there is going to be flood damaged vehicles on the market. Most reputable dealers will not knowingly touch a flooded vehicle with a 10 foot pole. So how do you know if a car has been flooded? Carpeting is the item that usually causes the most problems. Lift up the carpeting and check the pad this is impossible to get clean after a flood, also if it has been replaced check further.Smells are an indication of problems, after sitting in the sun for awhile there will be a noticeable odor. Or too much of a scent can also be a clue. Of course a carfax should always be checked before buying any vehicle but there are other sources National Motor Vehicle Title Information System and VINCheck from the National Insurance Crime Bureau. Remember through that not all repairs are reported. Most insurance companies will total a car if the floorboards are flooded some will only total if the dash is touched by water. With the number of computers in today’s cars many are installed under the seats so I think the floorboards should be a industry standard. If the deal sounds to good to be true it probably is. Whenever you buy a vehicle it is a good idea to know the reason it is being sold, there are many good deals out there brought on by financial problems, and other reasons. Many are also sold because they have problems or have had a history of repairs. There are also many overpriced vehicles that the seller could not get what they wanted dollar wise for there trade in and decided to sell it themselves. There is also the vehicles that the owner owes more than it is worth and trying to dump it. Always check Kelly or several other sources fro true value, I don’t think you should ever pay over private party price if buying from a dealer or more then trade if buying from a private party. O f course there is the exception of the car you really fall in love with but here again be careful and use common sense.