More than 6K vehicles damaged in California fires

February 19, 2025

The wildfires in California destroyed an estimated 6,300 vehicles, according to a new report from CARFAX.

The deadly fires that devastated areas around Los Angeles, including Malibu and Altadena, destroyed thousands of homes along with vehicles. As residents fled the fast-moving fires, many abandoned vehicles sometimes in the roadway.

“It’s heart-wrenching to witness the scale of destruction in California, and it’s difficult to even begin thinking about replacing what’s been lost,” said Patrick Olsen, Editor-in-Chief at CARFAX in the report.

CARFAX stated there could be an impact on car prices in the nation’s second-largest market with thousands of cars needing to be replaced.

The West Coast fires follow the extensive damage in Florida, the Carolinas and Tennessee from Hurricanes Helene and Milton. CARFAX estimated 347,000 vehicles were damaged during 2024 hurricanes, the most since 2022.

NIADA Author

The National Independent Automobile Dealers Association (NIADA) is among the nation’s largest trade associations, representing the used motor vehicle industry comprised of some 40,000 licensed used car dealers. Since 1946, NIADA has represented the voice and interests of used car dealers at the federal level in Washington D.C. Coupled with its state association network across the country, NIADA’s grass-roots framework provides a dual layer of advocacy unmatched in the used motor vehicle industry. For 75 years, NIADA has engineered programs and leveraged technology to fulfill its mission to advance, educate and promote the independent used car dealer. NIADA members subscribe to a strict Code of Ethics of duty, honor and integrity, and believe in the advancement of small business in support of the free-market system. More information about NIADA, visit www.niada.com.