Amid Catastrophic Flooding Across The Country, DMV Reminds New Yorkers To Beware Of Buying Flood-Damaged Vehicles
Customers Can Check the VIN to See If a Car Has Been Reported as Salvaged or Stolen
As record-breaking rainfalls continue to trigger catastrophic flooding across the country, the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) today reminded consumers to take precautions in the coming months to avoid unintentionally purchasing vehicles damaged by flooding.
Customers are encouraged to check for a history of flooding before buying a vehicle, whether it’s online, in a private sale or from a used-vehicle dealer. Car buyers can use VINCheck, a free service offered by The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NCIB). They can enter the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle they are considering purchasing to see if it has been reported as salvaged or stolen. Up to five VINs can be searched per day. The NICB also offers a free brochure on its website with tips on how to avoid post-disaster fraud.
“We’ve all seen the mass devastation caused by the flooding, either first-hand or in news reports, but the damage done to vehicles caught in the floods is not always so apparent,” said DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder. “We urge anyone planning to purchase a vehicle to check carefully before they buy. Please make use of our resources and tips to help you determine if a vehicle has sustained damage before you make a purchase.”
Flooding can damage a vehicle in many ways, both immediately and over time. While the most obvious signs include musty odors, water stains, rust and corrosion, flooding can also damage the engine, transmission, wiring, airbag and the vehicle’s computers, which may not be immediately visible.
Customers should be aware that just having a title from an area that has not flooded does not guarantee that a vehicle is damage-free. Some sellers take vehicles from flooded areas and retitle them in another state.
DMV also shares tips on buying vehicles, including protections available whether purchasing a used vehicle in a private sale or from an auto dealer.
Anyone who sells a rebuilt salvage vehicle, regardless of its age, must provide the buyer with a disclosure statement, which is on the back of the New York State Title Certificate. Failure to disclose the salvage history of a vehicle can result in a fine of up to $2,000 and any additional penalties under New York State Penal Law on the seller.
The New York State Auto Theft Prevention Program requires DMV to examine any vehicle rebuilt for use on roadways before issuing a title certificate or registration. The program includes vehicles issued a New York State Salvage Certificate and rebuilt salvage vehicles from most other states.
A New York State Title Certificate issued after the date of May 18, 1999, for a rebuilt salvage vehicle are branded, “REBUILT SALVAGE: NY.” Some title certificates issued before May 19, 1999, are also branded.
Visit the DMV's website for more information about the Salvage Vehicle Examination Program.
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