LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — Past flooding across the United States has caused billions in damage, but experts say some of that destruction isn't visible to the naked eye — it's showing up in cars on used car lots nationwide.

"Criminals take advantage of situations and so while we don't like to think that people would do that, there are people that are involved in criminal activity and see this as an opportunity to buy vehicles cheap and sell them and have ways of doing so without disclosing that you know, this vehicle has water damage or flood damage," said Lori Weaver Hawkins, the AAA Public Affairs Manager.

Cars that sit in floodwaters can suffer long-term problems including wiring issues, mold and engine trouble. The damage isn't always immediately apparent to potential buyers.

A flood

See Full Page