Accident damaged cars for sale

[321boost]

I was wondering what tips and tricks people on here use to buy cars and checking for damage. Usually the pictures look good until you turn up in person and see the car has had some kind of re-spray or repair carried out which has not been recorded and was not really visible in pictures.

There was a thread here earlier with a picture here

https://thumbsnap.com/qd6L20f1

It was claimed that this car is the same as this car

https://www.desperateseller.co.uk/cars-for-sale/ad...

I just cannot tell there ever was an accident on the right side of the car. The only sign might be a slight difference between the left and right side where the bumper meets the wheel arch. Even then I think its just the picture. The dealer does state there was a collision in the past.

[griffter]

It’s very very difficult from pictures if the repair was any good! Rubbish pictures should trigger alarm bells (but don’t mean accident damage of course), googling the number plate might turn something up and depending on the site, looking at past sales (and in the background of other cars for sale). You can also view the MOT history which won’t list any accident damage but sometimes the testers comment on repairs either needed or carried out (if structural). You can try and find the previous owner on forums (very hard for run of the mill of course).

After that you have to go and look at the car and look for ripples, paint mismatch, overspray, date codes on trim / seat belts matching the age of the car etc.

[PhilF329]

Lots of vehicles get repaired that aren’t recorded, but if the repair is completed properly then I wouldn’t be worried personally.

I check the MOT history for anomalies, speak to the buyer about the condition and history of the vehicle and ask for a video tour if needed. On the day I’d be looking for overspray, panel fit, paint surface / condition, sealant / caulk lines, evidence of leaks or unexpected new parts and do an HPI check. If I have real doubts I’d probably do a 4 wheel alignment check or walk away unless the price was right

If you aren’t comfortable inspecting a vehicle yourself then I would recommend completing a HPI check and having a professional inspection.