Look for flood damage when buying a used car, ADOT warns

ADOT is warning used car buyers to be aware of scammers trying to sell cars with flood damage after the monsoon. Doug Pacey, an ADOT spokesperson, says the damage is not always visible or obvious and suggests using the "sniff" test.

"It sounds silly to say, but when you're in those cracks and crevices and nooks and crannies of the car, sniff around and give it a smell. Water damage can have a distinct order," explained Pacey.

Not only are you risking your life if you drive into flooded roads, but repairs can cost you a lot of cash too.

Rawy Totri, owner of Sun City Auto Service said pricing will depend on much water gets stuck in the engine. Sometimes it's repairable and sometimes it's not. He said drivers could pay hundreds of dollars to unlock a hydro-locked engine. If it can't be unlocked, car owners would need a new engine which could run $7,000 - $15,000.

One of his customers, told him she got stuck in the Sun City flash floodwaters over the weekend. She was able to get out safely and get her car towed to his shop near 99th Ave and Grand. It's been a few days, but the car still hasn't dried out. There's still about an inch of water sitting on the backseat floors.

If you think someone sold you a flood damaged car without your knowledge, you can call ADOT's 24-hour fraud line is: 877-712-2370 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to report it. More information and tips can be found on the ADOT website.