Where Can I Check the Accident History When Buying a Used Car?
3 Answers
On the local traffic public security website, you can query the accident history by entering the license plate number and the last six digits of the VIN. Below are specific methods to distinguish the quality of a used car: Inspect the Exterior Carefully: For any accident vehicle, after major repairs, there will be noticeable differences in the gaps between body panels and the waistline of the car. Observe the Doors: Doors that have not been dismantled should open and close smoothly. Doors that have been disassembled multiple times not only have difficulty in operation but may also have damaged seals. In severe cases, the door may not close properly without applying force. After pulling down the door seal, normal vehicles should have weld points that are perfectly round and slightly recessed. If the weld points are rough and unevenly arranged, and there is a color difference in the paint on both sides of the A-pillar, B-pillar, and C-pillar, it can be confirmed that the car is an accident vehicle. Check the A, B, C, and D Pillars: Look for any deformations, cuts, sheet metal repairs, or repainting. If any are found, the vehicle likely has been involved in a significant accident.
Buying a used car and checking its accident history is actually quite simple. I recommend prioritizing the local vehicle management office. They can access official records, which are accurate and help avoid concealment of information. Alternatively, you can use professional report services, such as the vehicle condition inquiry feature on Alipay. Just enter the VIN code, pay a small fee, and you can view the accident and maintenance history. Don't forget to personally inspect the car, checking for repair marks on the front bumper and frame. Why be so cautious? Because accident cars have significant hidden dangers, affecting both safety and resale value. I've seen many people end up spending more on repairs because they skipped this step—definitely not worth it. In short, starting with official channels and combining it with your own inspection is the most reliable approach.
As a beginner, I rely on apps to buy used cars. Download an app like Autohome, enter the license plate number or VIN, and get a report in minutes. It usually costs a few dozen yuan and is quite worth it. You can also ask at a 4S shop—they often provide free maintenance records. Online community forums are great for sharing experiences, but always verify the information. Make sure to check everything before buying, or you might end up with a flood-damaged car that's a headache to repair. Remember, don’t just trust the seller—do your own research for peace of mind.
