7 Signs That a Used Car Has Been In an Accident Before

If you have decided that opting for a used car is the route for you, there is a list of things to keep a check on in order to help you spot if the car you are buying has ever been in an accident. You can obtain a vehicle history, but that involves a lot of money and time. Additionally, it is not always a guarantee that the vehicle’s history is actually spotless. Below mentioned are a few tips that can help you save some money and potential trouble.

Dodgy Paint

A good way to tell whether a car has been in an accident is to look out for signs that it has been repainted. The way to do this is to look at the reflection of the paint. On the surface, it may look smooth and clear when seen straight on, but if you sit by the side of the car, it is possible that you may see some unevenness. If you do spot it, there is a chance that the car has gone through some body repair. It is also advised to walk around the car and check that the color on all panels matches – if not, it indicates that some patchwork has been done to the car.

Misaligned Panels

When the boot, bonnet, and doors are closed they should to perfectly flush with the other panels. If the alignment does not seem right, it could be a sign that the car has been involved in an accident. Similarly, the front and rear bumper should fit straight.

Damp Smells

If it comes to your attention that the power windows, or the dash light or other electronic equipment don’t seem to be working right, it could be a sign of flood damage.

Check the Tyres

It is good to get down there and give those tyres a good check. If the tread appears to be uneven, it could be because of a misaligned wheel. It is also good to have a look at the underbody and wheel wells. If there appears to be a fresh undercoat it could be due to recent structural repairs.

Replaced Lights

Headlights tend to turn hazy and get a tint of yellow. If one of the headlights seem to be clear and the other does not, there are chances that one of them has been replaced. Also, the alignment of the headlights should be proper.              

Cracked Windshield

You should make sure to inspect the windshield of the car for cracks. Even if there is a small crack, it could be an indicator that the car has been part of an accident. Even if it has not been a part of an accident, any damage should be replaced by the seller before you buy the car. It is not a good idea to use this as a negotiation strategy and walk away with a cheaper deal.

Strange Sounds

You should never go through with buying a car without getting behind the wheels. While driving, you should look out for any strange sounds that may indicate that the car has been in an accident.

In a Nutshell

It is important to keep a lookout for all such signs while buying a used car as it will help you get the best deal. Once you have locked down your ideal car and gone through with the purchase, it is important to purchase a car insurance Dubai before taking it out for a spin. This is because it is mandatory by law to hold a car insurance dubai in order to drive a car.