New car was in a flood? Was just told that my car, that I bought new, looks like it was in a flood--?

Question

I have a 2005 Chevy Equinox, purchased from a Chevy dealer at the time this new SUV was released (about 3 years ago). Was one of the first to have this car in my area.

I just took it to a small, family-owned business this morning to have a trailer hitch installed (not my family, but the only other place we've had service on this vehicle is the dealership). When I went to pick up, the owner told me that it looked like it had been in a flood-- when they were installing the hitch they found internal bolts that were rusted that should not be with normal use.

Since we bought from a dealership as new, was not told it had any damage previously, and really have not had any mechanical issues from this supposive flood-- what do I do now?

Any legal experts out there? I live in New York State.

Thanks!

Answer 1

rust could be from many causes flood is only one possibility. stuck or going through deep snow especially where salt is applied is another also any problems with water leaks into the car during heavy rains . check the carfax report to see if the dealer that you bought it from or one that traded it to them got a insurance settlement on that car.

Answer 2

I'm not a legal expert, but get a carfax report. Don't expect to sue or get a new vehicle. You have had no problems other than a few rusted bolts after three years? If it was in a flood, the upholstery and carpet would smell mouldy. You can also check the wiring and fuse box. These are in the passenger compartment where it should be dry.

Answer 3

I wouldn't worry about it too much unless you've had electrical problems. If the car was in a flood you would have a lot of intermittent electrical problems, ie headlights not working, things getting stuck on, dead battery often, etc.

The bolts that they found rusted might have just been installed with the wrong bolts (corrosive kind, not rust resistant ones). I would get a 2nd opinion before I freaked out about it.

Answer 4

Yes, They have to tell you if the car was in any disaster, If you suspect that your car has any damage to it and they did not disclose it take it back and tell them to explain the rusty bolts and any other things that might cause you to be concerned, Do not let them replace the bolts they are not suppose to be rusty on a new car, I assembled cars at Atlanta Assembly Plant and I know for a fact we do not put rusty bolts on new cars, That makes me mad that they done that, That is not right If I can help any further let me know, good luck

Answer 5

Well you take it to another factory dealership and ask them to inspect it for flood damage. If they tell you that indeed is has been in a flood then. You have two options one with a lawyer and the other is with the limon law. Time is also a thing to be thinking about.

Answer 6

there have been many report,s of flood damaged vehicle,s.....have your v.i.n. number traced to find the final destination of your vehicle.....many [ from new orlean,s area] have been shipped around to different state,s....illegally...in an attempt to recover losses not paid by insurance company,s......don,t go back to the dealer you bought it from...contact your states attorney,s office for information...good luck.

Answer 7

go to www.carfax .com an enter your vin#

If it was in a flood there may be some insurance info. on a claim.

Answer 8

find out for sure if it was in a flood then sue them for as much as you paid for it!

Answer 9

CARFAX.COM