#United States #Oak Brook #National Insurance Crime Bureau #Flooded Vehicles #VINCheck

NICB's Warning on Flood-Damaged Vehicles

As severe weather events continue to affect various regions across the United States, the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) has taken a proactive stance, urging potential car buyers to remain vigilant during this peak flood season. The NICB, an organization dedicated to preventing insurance crimes and fraud, recognizes that the aftermath of flooding creates a breeding ground for unscrupulous sellers who may attempt to unload flood-damaged vehicles onto unsuspecting consumers.

Understanding the Risks

Every time a significant flooding event occurs, there are numerous vehicles that can be affected. Often, these cars may be relocated hundreds of miles away from where the flooding occurred and may re-enter the market without proper disclosure of their water-damaged status. David J. Glawe, NICB's President and CEO, stated, "Every major flooding event creates an opportunity for criminals to profit at the expense of consumers."

Flood-damaged vehicles can appear to be in excellent condition externally, but hidden issues can severe safety risks and lead to costly repairs down the line. Damage such as compromised electrical systems, impaired engines, and weakened brakes can pose serious hazards to drivers and passengers alike.

Importance of VIN Checks

The NICB has vehemently recommended that consumers utilize their free VINCheck service to thoroughly investigate the history of any used vehicle they consider purchasing. The VINCheck tool enables buyers to verify if a car has been reported as a salvage vehicle or a total loss by participating insurers, covering over 92% of the market. This step can be crucial in helping consumers avoid vehicles with flood-related issues. Since its inception post-Hurricane Katrina, VINCheck has processed nearly three million vehicle checks as of late July 2026.

In addition to using the VINCheck, consumers are encouraged to obtain a comprehensive vehicle history report and meticulously scrutinize the title history to identify any warning signs of a potential flood-damaged car. Signs to look out for include musty odors, water stains, rust, remnants of mud or silt, mismatched upholstery, or lingering moisture in areas of the vehicle.

Consulting Professionals

Moreover, prospective buyers should seek the services of licensed technicians or reputable repair facilities to conduct thorough inspections of the vehicle before making any purchase decisions. This professional oversight could potentially uncover issues that a layperson might overlook.

It's also critical for buyers to be wary of deals that seem too good to be true—if the price is abnormally low for a model that typically commands a higher market rate, it may be a red flag.

The Bigger Picture

As of August 2025, an estimated 530,000 flood-damaged vehicles were still circulating in the United States, posing significant risks to the unwary consumer. This alarming figure underlines the importance of NICB's warnings and the need for diligence on the part of those looking to purchase used vehicles.

The NICB continues to be a vital resource for both consumers and the insurance industry, advocating a sustained effort to monitor and communicate the dangers associated with flood-damaged vehicles. To learn more about protecting oneself from automotive fraud or to use NICB's VINCheck service, consumers can visit NICB.org.

In summary, as storm seasons bring about an increase in flood-damaged vehicles, and with the risks that these pose, the NICB's advice serves as an essential guide for anyone looking to buy a vehicle during this hazardous time.