How To Spot Accident Damage On A Used Car: A Perth Buyer’s Guide

How to Spot Accident Damage on a Used Car

Buying a used car can be an exciting experience, but it's important to look beyond the exterior appearance.

A vehicle may look clean and well-presented while still having signs of previous repairs or accident damage.

Before purchasing a used car in Perth, take time to inspect the vehicle carefully and review the available history and documentation.

Here are some practical things to look for when checking a used vehicle.

1. Look Carefully at the Paint

Different paint shades across body panels can sometimes indicate that a panel has been repaired or repainted.

Walk around the vehicle in good daylight and compare the colour and finish of neighbouring panels.

Look for:

• Differences in paint colour
• Uneven paint texture
• Overspray
• Paint marks around rubber seals
• Visible sanding marks
• Areas that appear noticeably newer than surrounding panels

A difference doesn't automatically mean the vehicle has been in a major accident, as panels can also be repainted for other reasons. However, anything unusual is worth asking about.

2. Check the Panel Gaps

Look at the gaps between:

• Bonnet and guards
• Doors and body panels
• Boot and rear panels
• Headlights and surrounding panels
• Bumpers and guards

Gaps that appear significantly different from one side to another may indicate previous panel repair or replacement.

Compare both sides of the vehicle rather than inspecting only one area.

3. Inspect the Bumpers and Lights

Bumpers, headlights and taillights can provide useful clues about previous repairs.

Check for:

• Cracks
• Scratches
• Loose fittings
• Misalignment
• Different-looking headlights
• Different-looking taillights
• Gaps between lights and body panels

If one component looks considerably newer than the others, ask why it was replaced.

4. Look Under the Bonnet

The engine bay can sometimes reveal signs of previous repairs.

Check for unusual differences in:

• Bolts
• Paint
• Seals
• Panels
• Welding marks
• Fasteners

Pay particular attention to areas around the front of the vehicle.

However, avoid making assumptions based on one observation. Some components may have been replaced as part of normal maintenance or repair.

5. Check the Boot and Spare Wheel Area

The boot area is another place worth inspecting.

Lift the boot floor where practical and check for:

• Signs of water entry
• Unusual repairs
• Different paint finishes
• Damaged panels
• Missing trim
• Welding or repair marks

This area can sometimes provide additional information that isn't visible from outside the vehicle.

6. Check the Tyres for Uneven Wear

Tyre condition isn't only about how much tread remains.

Look at whether the tyres are wearing evenly.

Uneven wear can sometimes be associated with alignment, suspension or other mechanical issues.

During the inspection, check:

• Tread condition
• Sidewall damage
• Uneven wear
• Different tyre sizes
• Different tyre brands
• Alignment during the test drive

If you notice unusual tyre wear, consider having the vehicle professionally inspected.

7. Pay Attention During the Test Drive

A test drive can help identify issues that aren't obvious when the vehicle is stationary.

Pay attention to:

• Steering
• Braking
• Vehicle tracking
• Suspension noises
• Vibrations
• Unusual road noise
• Warning lights

If the vehicle pulls noticeably to one side or doesn't feel stable, ask for the issue to be investigated.

8. Look at the Interior

Accident damage isn't always limited to the outside of the vehicle.

Check the interior for:

• Airbag warning lights
• Dashboard warning messages
• Damaged trim
• Poorly fitted panels
• Loose interior components
• Signs that airbags or other safety components may have been replaced

If an airbag or safety-system warning light remains illuminated, ask about it before proceeding with the purchase.

9. Review the Vehicle History

Physical inspection is only one part of the process.

Review the vehicle's available documentation and history before purchasing.

You may want to check:

• Service records
• Registration information
• Previous repair documentation where available
• Odometer information
• PPSR information
• Vehicle identification details

A PPSR check can provide important information recorded against a vehicle.

Make sure the VIN and other identifying information match the vehicle and documentation.

10. Consider a Professional Inspection

If you're not confident inspecting a vehicle yourself, consider arranging an independent inspection by a qualified automotive professional.

A professional may be able to identify mechanical or structural issues that aren't obvious during a basic walk-around.

This can be particularly useful when purchasing an older vehicle or a vehicle with limited documentation.

Does a Repainted Panel Mean the Car Was in an Accident?

Not necessarily.

A panel may have been repainted because of:

• Scratches
• Minor dents
• Stone chips
• Parking damage
• Cosmetic repairs
• Previous wear

The important thing is to ask questions and understand why repairs or replacement panels may have been required.

Don't automatically assume that a repaired panel means the vehicle has serious damage.

What Should You Do If You Find Something Unusual?

If you notice something that doesn't look right, don't ignore it.

Ask the seller for more information and, where appropriate, request supporting documentation.

You can also consider an independent inspection before completing the purchase.

Taking a little extra time to investigate can help you understand the vehicle's condition more clearly.

Used Car Inspection Checklist

Before buying a used vehicle, walk around the entire car and check:

• ✓ Paint colour and finish
• ✓ Panel gaps
• ✓ Bumpers
• ✓ Headlights and taillights
• ✓ Bonnet and boot areas
• ✓ Engine bay
• ✓ Tyres
• ✓ Suspension
• ✓ Steering
• ✓ Dashboard warning lights
• ✓ Interior condition
• ✓ Service records
• ✓ Vehicle history
• ✓ PPSR information
• ✓ Test-drive performance

Buying a Used Car in Perth?

A clean-looking vehicle isn't necessarily the whole story. Take your time, ask questions and review the available information before making your decision.

If you're searching for used cars in Perth, visit Crown Auto Deals at 1/173 Camboon Rd, Malaga WA 6090.

You can explore available vehicles, inspect the condition and speak with the team about the vehicle's available history and information.

Looking for your next used car in Perth? Visit Crown Auto Deals in Malaga WA and explore the available vehicles today.