New Jersey Online Database Logs Sandy-Damaged Cars

A new online database will allow New Jersey consumers buying used cars to see if the vehicle was damaged by Superstorm Sandy.

The state's motor vehicle commission says the number of flood-damaged and salvage vehicle titles it processes has spiked 6,000 percent in the past three months.

Raymond Martinez of the MVC says consumers should be cautious when buying a used car.

"If somebody's unscrupulous and is trying to hide a flood vehicle, they're going to cover up smells, they're going to dry out the vehicle, and try to get it running," he says, "But it's going to be a problem. If it's damaged with salt water it's going to be a problem down the road."

It is not illegal to sell a vehicle with either a flood or salvage title, but this must be disclosed to potential buyers by law.

Martinez says the database has recorded more than 13,000 vehicles so far.

The database can be accessed at njmvc.gov