Flood-damaged cars, such as those deemed totaled by insurance adjusters after Hurricane Katrina, often end up back on the market. Make sure you don't unknowingly buy one of them.

The National Insurance Crime Bureau recommends these tips to avoid getting scammed:

• Select a reputable car dealer.



• Inspect the vehicle for water stains, mildew, sand or silt under the carpets, floor mats, headliner cloth and behind the dashboard.



• Check for rust on screws in the console or areas where water normally doesn’t reach.



• Check for mud or grit in the spare tire compartment, alternator crevices, behind wiring harnesses, around the small recesses of starter motors, power steering pumps and relays.



• Check inside the seatbelt retractors by pulling the seatbelt all the way out and inspect for moisture, mildew or grime.



• Check door speakers as they will often be damaged due to flooding.



• Have a certified mechanic inspect the vehicle prior to purchasing it.



• Ask about the vehicle's history. Ask whether it was in any accidents or floods.



• Inspect the title and ownership papers for any potential or questionable salvage fraud.



• Conduct a title search of the vehicle.



• Look under the hood for signs of oxidation. Pull back rubber boots around electrical and mechanical connections for these indicators:
  
  
  • Iron materials will show signs of rust
  • Copper will show a green patina
  
  
  
• Aluminum and alloys will have a white powder and pitting.



• Trust your instincts: If you don’t like the answers or the deal sounds too good to be true, walk away!