How to Properly Identify an Accident Vehicle?
2 Answers
Check if the body paint color is consistent, whether the surface curvature on both sides is smooth, and observe if the paint reflection is reasonable. If there are discrepancies, the vehicle has definitely been repaired, and the repair quality is poor. Place the vehicle on level ground, stand 3 to 5 meters directly in front of it, and observe if the shoulders of the car are at the same height. If they differ, it indicates that the body frame has been repaired or the suspension and shock absorbers were not properly fixed. Observe if the gaps between the engine hood and the fenders on both sides are even; check if the gaps along the door edges are consistent; inspect if the gaps between the headlights, rear combination lights, and the metal body are uniform, and whether their condition appears similar. Also, check if all glass panels bear the same brand logo. Operate all doors by opening them to an angle of 45° to 60° and closing them with normal force. Observe if the doors close tightly, if the sound and force required are consistent. The left and right sides of the vehicle are symmetrical, including original weld points, fixed screws, and their positions. Therefore, comparing both sides for consistency can help identify any signs of repair.
When considering buying a used car, identifying accident vehicles is a top priority. My experience tells me to start with the details of the car body: observe the paint from different angles in front of the car. If there are color differences or a grainy texture, it may indicate that the accident area has been repainted. Open the hood and check if the welding points are even—irregular manual traces are highly suspicious. Excessive gaps or dents in the doors or trunk suggest frame deformation. After starting the engine, listen for smooth engine sounds; excessive vibration may indicate structural damage. Don’t forget to check the vehicle’s history—use a VIN code lookup platform to review accident records. No report doesn’t mean safety, so hire a professional inspector to test the suspension system with tools. No matter how well an accident car is repaired, it may still hide safety hazards, such as brake failure risks. I recommend spending more time on inspections before buying—don’t compromise safety for a cheap deal. Safety is real savings, especially before hitting the highway—conduct a thorough check.
