An ad reads, "Audi TT Roadster, very nice, loaded, book $32,500, selling for $25,000." The price seems like a sweet bargain, as it appears the buyer would save $7,500. What would motivate a seller to offer such a discount?

The buyer is told that the car has a salvage title, but the car looks fine, right? Maybe not.

Since Hurricane Katrina, a number of "junked" and salvage title cars have made it as far north as Minot.

Refurbished vehicles do not have to be fixed by a certified mechanic. Parts can be purchased from unaccountable parties on eBay and replaced by anyone.

The potential for malfunction and threat to passenger safety is high. Risks include air bag fraud, frame and/or body damage resulting from collision, mold and hidden electrical malfunction. Clues that a car has been refurbished include persistent odor and mismatched interior components.

Extended warranty companies will not insure cars with salvage titles due to the refurbished cars' inherent risks.

Because of the shifty background of salvage vehicles, buyers should proceed with caution. A seller, especially if he is not a licensed car dealer, can easily lie about the repairs and smooth over the faults of the car.

If you are an owner of such a vehicle, go back to the seller and ask about the vehicle's damage history, where the parts came from and who fixed the car (was the person a certified mechanic or someone "in between" jobs working in his sister's garage?).

Buyers can contact the North Dakota Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division in Bismarck to express concerns or to get more information on the risks of driving a vehicle with a salvage title.

Ultimately, it is best to buy from someone trustworthy who can stand behind the car's history.