How to Check if a New Car Has Been Repaired?
3 Answers
To check if a new car has been repaired, you can visit a 4S store. Here are the specific methods to check if a new car has been repaired: Check the maintenance and repair records: You can go to a 4S store to check the maintenance and repair records, or use some third-party software to query the car's maintenance and repair records. If it's a new car and no insurance has been purchased, it's impossible to check the claim records. If there are no repair records at the 4S store, you can hire a used car appraiser to inspect the car. During the repair process, some traces may be left, which a professional used car appraiser can identify. Carefully examine the car's appearance and odometer reading. A new car won't have small bumps or dents. Open the engine hood and wheel covers, and carefully check if any screw caps show signs of being tampered with. New cars are generally assembled electrically, so there shouldn't be any manual tightening marks. Check the odometer's mileage. New cars are usually transported by truck, and if they are driven a short distance, it generally won't exceed 500 kilometers. However, be cautious of odometer tampering—check if the screws on the dashboard have been disturbed.
When I first bought a car, I was always worried that the new car had been repaired, so I learned some inspection techniques. First, check the paint for spots or color differences—new paint feels different from old paint and has a more even gloss. Then, look at the door gaps and hood—if the gaps are too wide or uneven, it might indicate repairs. Inspect the tires and seats for wear—a new car should have almost no scratches. Don’t forget to check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and get a free history report from platforms like Carfax, which lists accidents and repair records. If the report shows any repairs, immediately ask the dealer for an explanation. Another method is to test-drive the car yourself, listening for unusual noises or checking if the handling feels smooth. Don’t trust the salesperson’s verbal promises—always scan the VIN with an app to confirm. A new car that’s been repaired poses significant risks, potentially affecting safety and warranty. I recommend doing these checks every time you buy a car—don’t skip this small effort.
As a frequent car buyer, checking whether a new car has undergone repairs relies on careful observation. Uneven paintwork or pinholes on the body surface suggest localized repairs. Screw marks in the engine bay or components that don't look new are also warning signs. I always check if the original factory labels match the delivery date, and the new car log should have no repair entries. Using a smart app to scan the vehicle system can reveal hidden fault codes or abnormal electronic records. It's also important to verify that the VIN matches the invoice to prevent old cars being passed off as new. Don't just rely on visual inspection; consult trusted technician friends, as dealers sometimes conceal minor damage records. Doing your own checks can save major trouble, since repaired cars lose value and may have hidden issues. Develop good habits by thoroughly verifying every purchase to protect your interests.
