College students in the market for a quality, low cost late model car need to be on the look out for vehicles which were flood damaged, but are being sold to unsuspecting consumers. Over the past few years hurricane damaged vehicles that were destroyed by Katrina and Rita have made it to the market and this year, thanks to hurricanes Gustav and Ike, thousands more are likely to become available for sale.

In some cases salvaged vehicles aren’t illegal to sell, but that doesn’t mean that you’ll want one. Carmax, the largest retailer of used cars in the country, recently sent out an alert to consumers to be aware of the problem while underscoring that the company doesn’t participate in the practice of selling flood damaged cars.

“Consumers should be aware that some businesses and individuals may try to sell salvaged and flood-damaged cars without revealing the vehicle history,” said Gary Hickman, purchasing manager for CarMax in Houston, Texas. “Flood-damaged cars that are not structurally or mechanically sound could be repaired, re-titled, and sold to unsuspecting buyers.”

CarMax’s car-buying team offers ten tips for identifying a vehicle with possible flood damage:

1. Check for a moldy smell inside the car and feel the carpet for dampness
2. Ask questions about an older car with a brand new interior or carpeting
3. Check for rust under the brake or gas pedals
4. Look for dirt or rust under the dashboard and floor mats
5. Inspect the bolts and screws under the seats for evidence of rust
6. Check the undercarriage for excessive rust
7. Check inside the trunk under the carpet in the spare tire well area for rust, dirt or sand
8. Look for corrosion, water marks, or a thin brown line on the exterior of the vehicle
9. Check to see if the electrical system works
10. Check the VIN number with AutoCheck or Carfax to see whether a flood claim has been filed or a salvage title has been issued on the vehicle

CarMax offers a free vehicle history report for every car that they sell and for people who choose to buy a car elsewhere, CarFax can provide similar assistance for a fee.

Yes, that Screaming Yellow 2006 Ford Mustang GT is a real beauty, but what’s that damp odor coming from the trunk? Better get its vehicle history report before falling in love with what could be a salvaged vehicle.

(Source: CarMax.com)

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Adv. – If you’re shopping for an auto loan, you’ll want to compare offers and find the auto protection you need to ensure that your investment lasts for many years.

Tags: Carfax, Carmax, flood cars, Katrina cars, vehicle history report

As recently as a few years ago, having a college education meant that employment doors were opened to grads, as they tapped their school and class contacts to help them a land a decent job. With several years of hard work, on the job training, and personal growth, many employees would find themselves established in their careers within about five years of their graduation.

Today, it seems that the value of getting a college degree has been diminished.

No, I’m not saying that you can’t earn a decent salary as a college graduate, rather there are opportunities for you to still make a lot of money without even taking one class. The difference today seems to be new earning opportunities — including the internet — where some people are gaining big riches through starting a new site, via ad revenue, or providing some other important web based service.

But, what I find lacking with some of these financially successful people, are some things which are best gained by attending college. These include:

A global education — Today’s college students have access to the entire world, thanks to the internet. But, internet access is only part of the equation — receiving instruction from a learned professor pays far more dividends than anything else. Great minds have much to share and college campuses have many people who can impart much including staff, grad students, and college leadership.

Peer challenge — The solitary lives that some people lead who work exclusively online means that they are missing out on being challenged by their peers. There is much energy that can be tapped from like-minded people who have a challenge set before them, a goal which they want to reach. The Biblical adage, “iron sharpens iron” is applicable at quality colleges and universities, giving you an opportunity to be built up while you build others up.

Diversity — The code word for learning today is diversity, but that often signifies only those people who look different from you. While diversity in this limited form can still be quite good, a diversity of ideas is what I’m talking about. Engaged students who are encouraged to share their ideas, problems, and resolutions can stimulate the mind. If you’re with your own limited people group all of the time will you be able to flourish? In some cases group thinking prevails where a diversity of ideas isn’t encouraged.

Good health — College graduates are generally healthier than their non-college peers, smoking less and eating better. A report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control revealed that college students have a better grasp of health issues and exercise more often specifically, “Among men, significant increases in regular physical activity were observed among respondents aged 45–64 years, non-Hispanic whites, non-Hispanic blacks, high school graduates, and college graduates — CDC Data & Statistics.

Better citizens — While making more money is often given as the chief reason why students should secure a college degree, for generations college was recognized as being a place to instill them with the knowledge and understanding that will make them more responsible citizens –Georgia Tech Research News. Citizenship seems to have taken a beaten of late — no wonder that so many people don’t vote or are disengaged civically. Personally, good societal health is guaranteed when citizens are involved.

Certainly, you can make a compelling argument why you shouldn’t go to college, perhaps grades, finances, or a lack of interest stand in the way. Yet, for people who finish up school, they’re much more likely to contribute back to society, something that can benefit everyone.

Further Reading

Promoting Healthy Eating and Physical Activity for a Healthier Nation (pdf)

The (Non-Monetary) Value of a College Degree

The Social Value of the College-Bred

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Adv. — Is your family experiencing a financial shortfall this academic year? Scholarships, grants, 529 money, and part time work may not be enough. Learn about private student loans by visiting SayStudent.com, your portal for college financial assistance. We have free tools for your download and updated information about current college financing requirements.

Tags: college, college degree, college education, university