You need to be vigilant when buying a used car, even if you don’t live near a traditional storm area. That’s because ... Bare metal will show signs of rust in flooded cars.

Drivers across the Phoenix area trying to make their way home should be wary of flooded roads and the potential for more showers Tuesday afternoon, according to the National Weather Service.

So buyers should beware, especially in the Southeast ... Experts advise strongly against a car that's been flooded, even if they look, smell and drive OK. They're notorious for electrical problems ...