Buying a used car isn’t always easy. Most buyers don’t know much about body repair. A car can run well after professional work. However, you must know about the previous damages and repairs that have been done to fix it. This helps you judge how reliable the car is and estimate its market value. This article will guide you in detecting past repairs before buying a used car.
Highlights
In this article, you will learn about:
- Simple tricks to detect past body repairs.
- Key inspection points
- Why expert checks matter.
Check Panel Fit and Alignment
One of the easiest ways to spot past body repair is by looking at panel gaps. The spaces around doors, the hood, fenders, bumpers, and the trunk are even and consistent on a factory-built car. Skilled technicians match this alignment during quality repairs. But in cheaper jobs, panels often don’t line up, leaving uneven gaps. If you notice misalignment, it’s a clear sign the car has been repaired.
Also Read: Hidden Car Damage That Could Affect Your Safety After an Accident
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Paintwork Irregularities
Check the car’s colour in sunlight. If you notice any bubbles or rough texture while walking around the vehicle, it means a bad repair or rust under the paint. Rust spreads with time and can weaken the body. The car will look patchy, and its resale value will decrease.
Colour variation
Look closely at the shade of paint across different panels. Factories paint the whole car in one process, so colours should match perfectly. If there is a variation in paint shade, the car is repainted after damage or repair. You can notice such changes by viewing the car in sunlight or inspecting it from different angles.
Check for Overspray
Overspray happens when paint spreads beyond the intended area during repair. Look closely around rubber seals, window edges, bumpers, and especially inside the fuel cap area. These spots are clean at the factory finish. If you notice paint mist or uneven edges, it usually means the car was repainted after damage.
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Use a magnet
You can also use a magnet while inspecting a used steel car. Hold the magnet against the panels. If the magnet sticks to most of the car body but not in certain spots, it usually means body filler (putty) has been used to repaint or to cover deep dents.
If a thick filler layer is applied, the magnet will not stick at all. If only a small amount of filler is used, the magnet will still stick, but with noticeably less attraction compared to the surrounding areas.
However, remember that many cars today use materials like plastic, aluminium, or carbon fibre, where magnets won’t stick at all.
Take a Test Drive
A test drive can reveal issues that point to hidden damage or poor repairs. You should listen for strange engine noises. Also, keep noticing any warning lights or suspension issues. However, short drives on smooth roads can hide these problems. Thus, you should not rely solely on your test and hire a professional to inspect the vehicle.
Also Read: Warning Signs Your Car Needs Urgent Repairs
Take Professional Opinion
If you do not have in-depth knowledge of car repairs, hiring an independent vehicle technician and conducting a thorough pre-purchase inspection is better. It will ensure that there are no undisclosed issues. If hidden damage is found, you can use that to negotiate the price. After purchase, you will still need reliable cosmetic repairs, so you can choose AXV Auto Shop, which provides trusted services in London.
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Key Takeaway
Before buying a used car, always walk around the vehicle, check the paintwork, and look for signs of damage. Small details like colour changes or tilted frames can reveal past accidents. Service records and a professional inspection give you extra security. The smartest decision is to detect previous body repairs before money changes hands.
Frequently Asked Questions
You should always look for loose panels or mismatched paint to find any tampering. Moreover, check the dashboard for warning lights. Always review the paperwork to make sure numbers match.
You can check a car’s accident history for free in the UK by looking up its MOT history online with the registration number. For a complete guide, see our tips above on spotting body repairs and accident damage before buying a used car.
Before buying a used car, hire an independent mechanic and discuss the car’s history and any specific concerns you have. The mechanic will perform a detailed mechanical, safety, and cosmetic inspection. You will then get a detailed report outlining the vehicle’s condition.
Found Damage or Poor Past Repairs?
Bring your car to AVX Auto Repairs. As insurance approved repair specialists, we ensure that every dent, scratch, or hidden issue is fixed correctly.
