How to Check for Traffic Accidents When Buying a Used Car?
2 Answers
To check a vehicle's accident history, you can log in to the official website of the public security authority and enter the license plate number and VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) of the car. This will generally reveal any unresolved traffic accidents. Here are some precautions to take when buying a used car: 1. Pay attention to the exterior: Some used cars have been involved in accidents. To increase their resale value, dealers may refurbish them, repaint the body, and make them look newer. Therefore, when purchasing, carefully inspect the exterior, check for signs of repainting in corners and parts, and look for wear on tires, headlights, and bumpers. 2. Ensure complete documentation: Documentation is crucial when buying a used car. Key documents usually include the vehicle registration certificate, driving license, purchase tax receipt, compulsory traffic insurance, and other relevant fees, proving the car is legally compliant and not problematic.
To check if a used car has been in an accident, this is what I always pay extra attention to when buying a car. The first step is to check the vehicle's history. Use an app to scan the VIN code—reports from platforms like Che300 or Guazi Used Car are quite reliable. They show accident records, maintenance history, and even insurance claim data. The second step is a physical inspection: open the hood to check if the weld points are uniform and original, and see if the door gaps align properly. If the paint is too thick or has color discrepancies, it might have been in a collision. The third step is to listen for unusual noises during a test drive, especially over speed bumps to check if the suspension is stable. I always recommend bringing a mechanic for an inspection—it costs just a small fee but can save you major headaches. Accident-damaged cars are unsafe to drive and may end up costing much more in repairs. After all, used cars may be cheaper but come with hidden risks, so never overlook details just to save a few bucks.
