Buying a Used Car: Hidden Collision Damage Checklist

Walk around in daylight

Look along each side for waves, color differences and mismatched texture. Shade can hide problems, so view the car in sun.

Gaps and bolts

Gaps should match left to right. Paint chips on bolt heads under the hood suggest panels were removed.

Overspray and seals

Overspray on rubber seals, trim and lights shows repainting. Mismatched seam sealer in door jambs does too.

Tires and alignment

Uneven wear means alignment problems that can signal prior damage.

History report and inspection

Reports show claims but not every repair. A pre-purchase inspection and measuring can reveal more. Ask us, we can look at suspected collision repair.

The paper trail

Ask for the vehicle history report and check it for accident or damage entries, title brands and odometer records. Ask the seller for repair invoices. A seller who repaired the car properly usually kept the paperwork. Compare the report with what you see on the car.

Not all repairs show up in reports, particularly if the owner paid directly.

A professional second look

A pre-purchase inspection by an independent shop can catch what you miss. Ask that the inspection include a look at the underbody, the suspension and a check for structural repair. If the car passes your own checks and the inspection, you have good grounds to buy.

If you want an opinion on suspected collision repair, call us at (408) 243-2530 and ask what is possible. We can tell you what we see on a short visit, and we would rather tell you now than after you buy.