Wisconsin DMV warns of buying flood damaged vehicles

With widespread flooding in some counties just to our south this summer, The Wisconsin Department of Transportation’s Division of Motor Vehicles is reminding consumers and dealers who are buying a used vehicle to check it carefully for potential flood damage.

Water may cause mechanical or electrical issues and affect the overall safety of the vehicle. The DMV has resources to help identify damaged vehicles, tips for car buyers, and support if a faulty vehicle is purchased from a Wisconsin dealer.

They say Flood damage may not be apparent until months after the flood.

Anyone considering buying a vehicle should thoroughly inspect it. The Wisconsin DMV offers these tips on what to watch for when buying a used vehicle:

Check for a damp or musty smell.

Look for water stains, discoloration or mud in the engine, trunk areas, or the interior, including under the carpet and hard-to-reach areas.

Test the functionality of electrical components, Moisture, condensation or corrosion could indicate damage.

And If possible, have your own mechanic inspect the vehicle prior to purchasing the vehicle.

Dealers are required to disclose if the vehicle has flood damage. If the vehicle has been branded flood damaged, it will be disclosed under the Title Brands section on the Wisconsin Buyer’s Guide.

If buying a vehicle from a private sale, consumers need to trust their instincts and senses as private sales do not have the same consumer protections as compared to buying a vehicle from a licensed Wisconsin dealer.