A recent study by Carfax reports that flood-damaged cars are appearing all over the U.S.

Carfax warns that water can fatally damage a car's most important features like the electrical and safety systems. It can cause airbags and antilock brakes to malfunction, effectively turning the car into a ticking time bomb.

“Flooded cars are indeed on the move and consumers everywhere are at risk,” said Larry Gamache, communications director at Carfax, in the report. “However, using the information gathered in our database, and new resources like Carfax Xpert, used-car shoppers can uncover some of the nasty secrets a car may be hiding.”

Used-car sales are expected to top 44 million this year, which means that consumers should be on high alert for signs of hidden damage and potential fraud.

“In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, an unprecedented effort was made by the auto industry to identify, process, and report these vehicles, as well as warn consumers about the dangers of flooded cars,” added Gamache in the report.

Interested in more auto-claim news and in-depth articles? Head over to Claims' auto-claim channel for more information.

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