Tampa Bay Ranks first nationwide for flood-damaged cars entering used market

Warning about buying flood-damaged cars

FOX 13's Jennifer Kveglis shares the warning from experts about flood-damaged cars as Florida now ranks first nationwide with the highest number entering the used market.

Tampa - A new study from CARFAX shows Florida has overtaken other states for the highest number of flood-damaged vehicles on the used car market in 2025.

The Tampa-St. Petersburg-Sarasota area ranks second only to Houston in U.S. cities with most of these cars back on the road.

Nationwide, CARFAX estimates there are over 482,000 vehicles with flood or water damage on the streets, with an additional 45,000 impacted after storms this year alone.

READ: FEMA's new flood maps put parts of Clearwater in flood zone for first time

What they're saying:

While these vehicles often look "showroom fresh," experts say they can hide electrical problems, mold, and internal corrosion that could put drivers and passengers at risk, either immediately or years later. "They’re literally rotting from the inside out," said Em Nguyen, PR Director at CARFAX.

What you can do:

Experts recommend buyers take these steps before purchasing:

• Check the VIN through CARFAX or the DMV for a flood-damage history.
• Inspect in person — smell for mildew, feel for damp upholstery, and check for mismatched interior parts.
• Look closely at lights — foggy moisture inside headlights or taillights is a red flag.
• Have a mechanic inspect the car before buying.

"We really have to be mindful about what we’re buying. We’ve gotta look past the paint," said AAA’s Ben Perricone.

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