How to Identify If You Suspect Purchasing a Transport-Damaged Vehicle?
2 Answers
Check whether the manufacturing dates of the glass and the car are consistent; look for signs of bolt removal, check if the paint thickness is uniform, and see if there is any color difference. It is essential to conduct a PDI (Pre-Delivery Inspection) test, which can more directly indicate potential issues. You can review relevant maintenance records or perform some professional inspections.
I also suspected that I had bought a transport-damaged car before, so I carefully scanned the entire body from head to toe. The main focus was on checking for uneven paintwork, such as subtle color differences or orange peel texture often left by repainting. Also, I examined the body gaps, like whether the seams of the doors and hood were aligned and had consistent spacing. Additionally, don’t forget to check if the glass is original—transport-damaged glass often has small cracks or replacement stickers. The chassis is important too; it’s best to find a ramp to lift the car and check for scratches or deformations. After that inspection, I recall checking the vehicle’s repair records by looking up the VIN history through an app. If you find any red flags, don’t hesitate to contact a professional inspection agency—a small fee can save you from major losses. When buying a new car, inspect it in the parking lot before taking delivery, as it’s hard to hold anyone accountable afterward. Luckily, I didn’t encounter any major issues that time.
