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RoadSmart Report | January, 2006
Buyer beware – flood-damaged vehicles
Due to the hurricanes that ravaged the United States Gulf Coast this past year, many vehicles from that region are now flood-damaged beyond repair.
While SGI is not aware of any of these vehicles entering Saskatchewan, used vehicle buyers here should be aware there is a risk that flood-damaged vehicles will turn up in the Saskatchewan market.
Flood-damaged vehicles have a greater risk of premature failure of the structure, mechanical components, engine and transmission and electronic systems of the vehicle, including occupant protection systems, such as airbag components. There may also be health concerns because of mould.
For these reasons, any vehicles discovered as flood-damaged will be considered non-repairable and ineligible for registration in Saskatchewan.
“To make sure you’re not stuck with a flood-damaged vehicle, SGI wants you to take some simple steps when buying your next used vehicle,” said Brian Kline, SGI’s Manager of Vehicle Standards and Inspection.
One of the most effective ways to see if you’re able to register any used vehicle in Saskatchewan is to request a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) search by contacting any SGI motor licence issuer. For $10, SGI will check all Canadian jurisdictions and a U.S. database of flood-damaged vehicles to check the vehicle’s status and to verify a vehicle’s condition.
You can also check the U.S. VIN database for free at www.nicb.org. Please note that these databases don’t include all flood-damaged vehicles, as not all have been reported. If a vehicle wasn’t insured in the U.S., it’s possible that it could still make its way into Saskatchewan without anyone knowing.
A VIN search is only one of the steps you should take before purchasing your next used vehicle. Here’s a few more:
- have the vehicle inspected by a trusted and certified automotive technician before you buy
- buy only from a licensed automotive business
- check for damp or musty odours
- check for any signs of rust or mud in the trunk, glove box and beneath the seats
- check under the hood and look for a water line marked by mud or silt
To ensure your next vehicle purchase is a smart one, make sure to pick up a copy of SGI’s Vehicle Inspection Programs and Used Vehicle Buyer’s Guide, available at all SGI motor licence issuers.
Contact:
Brian Kline
Manager, Vehicle Inspection
SGI
Regina
(306) 775-6189
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