How Significant Is the Impact After an Accident Vehicle Is Repaired? How Many More Years Can It Be Driven?
2 Answers
Based on the designed service life of automobiles exceeding 20 years, if an accident vehicle can be restored to its factory technical standards, its service life can still be quite long. Even a new car involved in an accident can typically be used normally for another eight to ten years after repairs. However, for vehicles that cannot be restored to their original technical condition, it is difficult to determine how many more years they can be used. The following precautions should be taken after an accident vehicle is repaired: 1. After the accident vehicle is repaired: It is best not to exceed an engine speed of 4000 rpm. Newly replaced parts require a certain break-in mileage and are not suitable for high-intensity operation. The vehicle speed should also not be too high. 2. Avoid overloading: A newly repaired accident vehicle is still in the testing phase. Although some data has been corrected, a certain driving mileage is required for verification. Excessive load puts significant strain on the steering and braking systems. 3. After driving a certain mileage: The vehicle should be sent to a repair shop for testing of relevant data, such as whether the tires are wearing unevenly or if the running gear is deformed. If necessary, corresponding corrections should be made.
I know a bit about this. The impact of a repaired accident vehicle mainly depends on the severity of the accident and the professionalism of the repair. Minor dents and scratches, once fixed, hardly make a difference—the car can run for years, almost like new. However, in cases of severe crashes, such as damage to the frame or engine, even if it looks fine on the surface, there could be major hidden issues, making it unsafe to drive—like unstable body movement during turns or strange noises. As for how many years it can last, it’s hard to say, depending on the type of accident, the car brand, and subsequent maintenance. With proper post-repair care and cautious driving, it might last 5-10 years; otherwise, if problems keep arising, it could be scrapped in 2-3 years. Experience tells me that regular post-repair inspections of the body structure, checking weld points and critical joints, and avoiding high-speed driving can significantly reduce risks. When buying, also pay attention to the repair records—don’t court big trouble just to save a few bucks.
