In the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, a great deal of New York and New Jersey residents have lost their homes, businesses and vehicles. Many coastal areas were hit with major flooding, with some cars and trucks completely immersed in the rushing waters brought on by the storm. In this situation, it is highly unlikely that a vehicle will be repairable after such damage, and Carfax, which provides vehicle history reports for used cars and trucks, is reporting that the vehicle flood damage caused by Sandy could surpass the 640,000 cars destroyed by Hurricane Katrina.

"Carfax already receives information about flood damaged vehicles from every state impacted by Hurricane Sandy," said Larry Gamache, Carfax communications director. "Information about flood damage is reported to Carfax directly from every state DMV, as well as insurance companies, law enforcement organizations, repair facilities and many other sources."

It is important for car shoppers to be aware of flood damage when they are looking to purchase used vehicles. Not all cars caught in flood waters will be rendered undrivable, but the problems flooding can cause may become apparent down the line. Dirt and debris can work their way into the engine of a flooded car and create issues over time that may not be apparent right away. These models may sometimes make it to dealerships to be resold. Carfax is urging drivers and dealers in affected and surrounding areas to pay extra special attention to the condition of used vehicles coming in.

New Jersey Auto Auction provides Carfax history reports for every vehicle on the lot, giving drivers added assurance that they will not wind up with a car that's suffered through a flood. Drivers should also have independent mechanics inspect potential purchases prior to making a final decision, and they can look for waterlines in the engine compartment and trunk for evidence as well.