With hurricane season arriving and heavy rains approaching much of the country, floods are a common threat. However, what many people do not realize is that these rising waters can cause extreme damage to vehicles as well as other property, and in countless situations, the automobiles left on the roads are sold to unsuspecting buyers. 

According to the Federal Trade Commission, vehicles damaged by Hurricane Sandy are still being sold. CARFAX estimated that more than 212,000 automobiles that had water damage are still on the roads, with about two-thirds in 10 states, including New Jersey, Pennsylvania and New York. Other storms and floods around the U.S. could affect cars that are then shipped to other areas and sold.  

"Our research proves that flood-damaged cars are everywhere," said Larry Gamache, the communications director at CARFAX. "It's big business for professional con men to quickly clean up and resell these cars miles from where the flooding occurred. Consumers need to look out for flooded cars no matter where they live. They're a serious danger to anyone who unknowingly buys one." 

Although many of these vehicles may look fine on the outside, there may be instances of water damage and corrosion on the inside that leads to poor performance and potentially dangerous situations. Water can also wreak havoc on an electrical system, allow mold to grow within a ventilation unit or interfere with the operation of safety features.

Drivers can rest assured that they are finding quality used cars for sale at NJ State Auto Auction. The lot carries CARFAX-certified cars, trucks and vans, allowing prospective buyers to select an option that is both affordable and of good quality.