How to Identify an Accident Vehicle?
2 Answers
First, observe whether the gaps between the body panels are uniform and consistent, and then check if the side body lines are smooth. This can help determine if the vehicle has been involved in a collision, and whether it was severe. You can also inspect the A, B, C pillars and the rubber seals. Then, pull down the original door seals; the door frame and pillars should be straight.
To identify a salvaged car, I would focus on checking whether the frame shows signs of deformation or re-welding. Original factory frame welding points are usually neat and uniform, but repairs on salvaged cars may result in rough welding spots or areas patched with sealant. Inspect the straightness of the longitudinal beams under the hood by measuring the gaps with a ruler. Check if the doors and trunk lid open and close smoothly—doors repaired after an accident often don’t seal properly or produce unusual noises. Also, examine paint details; significant color differences between panels or bubbling paint may indicate repainting. The repair report is crucial—obtain a Carfax or similar report to check the accident history. If any suspicious signs are found, I strongly recommend visiting an authorized repair shop for an undercarriage scan to prevent safety hazards. A poorly repaired salvaged car can reduce lifespan, incur high repair costs, and compromise driving safety, so don’t skimp on this expense before purchasing.
