How can I tell if a used car has been in an accident?
Visual clues
Inspect the car in bright light and look for differences in paint color or texture between panels. Overspray on rubber seals, glass, or in the wheel wells is a common sign of repainting. Check that the hood, doors, and trunk open and close smoothly and align evenly.
Look at the bolts that attach fenders and doors; if they show signs of wrench marks or missing paint, they may have been removed for repairs. Also check the windshield and other glass for the manufacturer's logo; mismatched glass can indicate replacement after an accident.
Paperwork and history reports
Get the VIN and run a vehicle history report. These reports can show accidents, salvage titles, flood damage, and odometer rollbacks, but they aren't always complete. Ask the seller for maintenance records; a well-documented car is less risky.
If the car has a salvage or rebuilt title, it was declared a total loss by an insurer. Some states require special inspections to retitle such cars. Even if repaired, they may have hidden structural damage and lower resale value.
- Check for a salvage or rebuilt title on the title document.
- Ask the seller directly about accident history.
- Look for a DOT-R sticker on body panels (indicates replacement).
- Have a mechanic check frame alignment and weld marks.
Common mistakes
- Trusting a clean history report as proof of no accidents.
- Assuming a car with a rebuilt title is always a bad deal; it can be, but it depends on the quality of repairs.
- Overlooking small signs like mismatched bolts or paint runs.
