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FLORIDA - According to a recent study, Florida is the state with the highest number of water-damaged vehicles.
Carfax reported on August 6th that of the approximately 482,000 flooded vehicles in the U.S. by the start of 2025, nearly 82,100 will be in Florida.
This is significantly higher than Texas, the second-highest state, with almost 20,000 fewer damaged vehicles.
Flooding in Florida, due to frequent hurricanes and heavy rain, contributes to this large number.
Many of these water-damaged vehicles are repaired and end up on used car lots, auto auctions, or online ads nationwide, posing a risk to unsuspecting buyers.
Carfax Vice President Faisal Hasan warned that flood-damaged cars may appear pristine after cleaning but are often rotting from the inside out.
Water damage can severely affect a car’s electrical and mechanical systems, which may not show immediate signs.
Critical components, like airbags, brake pedals, and steering, can malfunction months or even years later.
Electric vehicles (EVs) are particularly vulnerable, with the lithium-ion batteries prone to water damage that can lead to short circuits or fires.
A 2024 study reported that Hurricane Ian damaged thousands of EVs, some of which later caught fire.
Carfax advises consumers to inspect titles for flood-related history and look for signs of damage like musty odors or rust. Buyers should also consult a mechanic for a professional evaluation.