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Buying a Repo Car? Here’s What You Need to Know About Accident History

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Buying a repo car can save literally thousands of dollars, but there is an art to the process that can make all the difference between a successful purchase and a money pit.

One of the nuances of this is the accident history of the car. It’s extremely important to make sure you have a full understanding of the repo car you’re considering purchasing to protect yourself from long-term problems.

This guide will take you through the whole process, to make sure you actually save money. 

Let’s get into it.

Vehicle History Reports

Vehicle history reports reveal crucial details about a repo car’s past through documented records of accidents, repairs, and title changes. 

These reports act as your primary defense against purchasing a vehicle with hidden damage or title issues.

Decoding the VIN

A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) contains 17 characters that uniquely identify your potential purchase. Each digit represents specific vehicle information, from the manufacturer to the model year.

You’ll find the VIN on the dashboard near the windshield and on the driver’s side door jamb. Make sure to locate the number and check they match.

Key VIN locations to check:

  • Dashboard (viewed through windshield)
  • Driver’s side door frame
  • Insurance documents
  • Vehicle registration

Accident History

Use a website like Carfax or AutoCheck to see if the vehicle has any accidents along with the damage severity ratings.

Look out for airbag deployments or structural damage, as well as other common red flags:

  • Frame damage
  • Multiple accidents in short periods
  • Inconsistent repair documentation
  • Missing accident details

Assessing the Significance of a Salvage Title

A salvage title means an insurance company declared the vehicle a total loss. This typically happens when repair costs exceed 75% of the car’s value.

Salvage titles severely impact resale value and insurance coverage options. Some insurers won’t provide comprehensive coverage for salvaged vehicles.

Important salvage title considerations:

  • Limited financing options
  • Higher insurance premiums
  • Reduced resale potential
  • Required safety inspections

Inspection and Evaluation of Repo Cars

A thorough inspection of a repossessed vehicle can reveal hidden problems and help you make an informed purchase decision. Professional evaluations and careful attention to specific damage indicators protect your investment.

Professional Pre-Purchase Inspection

Take the vehicle to a licensed mechanic for a comprehensive inspection before purchase. A professional can spot mechanical issues that might not be apparent during a test drive.

The inspection should include a detailed examination of the engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical systems. Most mechanics charge between $100-200 for this service.

Request a written report documenting all findings. This document can serve as leverage for price negotiations and help you estimate potential repair costs.

Identifying Signs of Frame or Flood Damage

Check the vehicle’s frame rails and mounting points for signs of welding or straightening. Look for misaligned body panels and uneven gaps between doors.

Key flood damage indicators:

  • Musty odors in the interior
  • Water lines in the engine compartment
  • Rust in unusual places
  • Mud or debris in hidden areas
  • Brittle wiring under the dashboard

Examine the carpet and upholstery for water stains or signs of recent replacement.

Analyzing Mileage and Wear

Compare the wear on pedals, seats, and steering wheel with the displayed mileage. These components should show consistent wear patterns.

Check these wear points:

  • Driver’s seat bolster condition
  • Brake pedal rubber wear
  • Steering wheel smoothness
  • Door handle wear patterns

Request maintenance records to verify regular service intervals. A vehicle with documented maintenance often indicates responsible ownership.

Look for uneven tire wear, which can signal alignment problems or improper rotation schedules.

 

car windshield shattered in an accident

How to Tell if a Used Car Has Been in an Accident

If you’re looking for a cheap used car, you’ll have great luck browsing repo inventory. Despite popular belief, repo cars, trucks and SUVs are often in good condition. Most need a good cleaning and some basic maintenance but that’s it! 

However, it’s important to know that repos are sold as-is. They are priced just right, but you also inherit all of the problems. It’s not like shopping at a dealership where you can return the car if you don’t want or like it. 

With this in mind, there are certain things you’ll want to watch for when shopping for repos. One of the most important is making sure the car wasn’t involved in an accident. Improper crash repair can affect the way the car drives. 

Below are some signs that will help you determine if a repo vehicle has accident damage. If you spot these red flags, we recommend passing up the vehicle and looking at something else. 

Repainting 

Most collision work involves some type of paintwork. Even the best paint jobs usually leave behind some signs. Start by looking at the colors, sheens and finishes. They should all match up. 

Next, walk the length of the car and look at the reflections in the bodywork. Any waves or changes in luster may indicate that a panel was repainted. Also look for paint drips on panel edges or overspray on taillights, exhaust pipes and headlights. 

Spacing Between Body Panels 

Another thing to look for is inconsistent spacing between body panels. All gaps should be even throughout the vehicle. If you find that one gap between the door and body panel is not consistent with the others, it’s possible that there’s damage here. Of course, not all cars are perfect, but manufacturer defects should be subtle.

Frame Damage 

If possible, ask if you or the seller can drive the vehicle back and forth. This may not be possible with a repo, but it’s worth requesting. Watching the vehicle in motion lets you see if there is frame damage. Cars with this type of damage often drive sideways instead of forward.

If you’re not able to drive the car, get low to the ground and look for signs of “crabbing.” Crabbing is a sign of frame damage that happens when the front and back wheels don’t line up correctly. It typically comes from more serious accidents. 

Fresh Undercoat 

One of the first steps in repairing a wrecked car is adding a rubberized undercoat to the underbelly of the vehicle. This spray protects the car from salt, road grime and other contaminants. Even though it works great, be wary of why it’s there. Sometimes, people will apply a fresh coat to the underside to cover up recent damage. 

Missing Fasteners and Rusty Screws 

Having a few loose screws might not sound like a big deal, but it can indicate a larger problem. Loose screws, especially in the fender lines, means the car was involved in some rough road conditions. The screws might be missing because they no longer line up. 

Look for missing or loose screws in the wheel well, along the frame of the engine bay and within door jams. Rusty screws are also a problem because they typically indicate that the car has been smacked around. 

So what if you notice signs of damage? We recommend choosing a different vehicle for your own safety. But if you feel comfortable purchasing the car, you can always ask the seller for a discount. If you point out the areas of concern, they’ll probably be willing to work with you. For a full list of repossessions in your area, shop on RepoFinder.com today.