What to know and watch for in New Orleans when you check out used cars

Why the Used Car Market is Different in New Orleans

Harry Lloyd

The Big Easy

If you are looking to buy New Orleans used cars, there are a few things that are unique to this area that you should be aware of before you make your decision. Knowing ahead of time what sets your area apart from others can help you watch for red flags and find better deals on the cars you want.

Flood damage

The effects of Hurricane Katrina are unfortunately still felt today, and it has affected the used car market in the entire region as well. Experts estimate that over half a million cars in this area were flooded, deemed totaled by insurance companies, and then sold at auctions to dealers and salvage operators.

These vehicles, and many more with flood damage, were then resold to the public, and they weren't just the cheap used cars in New Orleans, they were sold all over the region.

This is not an illegal practice; sellers need a clearly labeled salvage or flood title that notifies the buyer. However, some damaged cars are not given the required treatment. Water damage can wreak havoc on many different systems in a car, so if at all possible, you will want to avoid these cars.

Take these simple precautions to find out if you are looking at flood damaged cars:

1. If possible, hire a professional mechanic to inspect it
2. Buy a vehicle history report
3. Test all electronics in the car
4. Check the interior for these tell tale signs:
• Discoloration, fading and staining
• Musky or damp smell
• Sand or dirt deposited in unusual, hard to reach places
• Interiors that don't match

Alternatives

There are still many used cars in this area that were not affected by the flood damage, and it is certainly possible to find one of those in this area if you are diligent and careful.

If you'd rather choose a new car to avoid all this entirely but still have to stick to your budget, the next best thing to new cars under $10000 you can find would be the 2012 Nissan Versa, it starts at just $10,990.

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