Buying a used car from a private seller or dealership in America can be exhilarating, but it can also be stressful. You might find the exact make and model you've been looking for and maybe the right color and at the right price, but before you shake hands with the seller, you need to consider one last thing. Has the vehicle ever been in an accident? Now is probably a good time to do a vehicle accident history check. A car may look perfect from the outside and it might even drive great, but it may have problems that are lurking somewhere below the paint caused by previous accident damage. Knowing the history will give you a chance to make an informed decision, avoid unexpected costs for repairs and ensure your safety.
Why Accident History Matters
Having a car that has been in an accident is not always a deal breaker. As long as the vehicle is repaired properly, it can be put back in its original condition and provide the owner with a worry-free ownership experience. The real problem is when the vehicle, especially one that has been in a serious collision, was not repaired properly with the aim of making it look good cosmetically without addressing any of the important damaged components that lie beneath the vehicle’s outer panels. Further complicating the situation is the fact that lack of disclosure by the seller makes this shoddy repair invisible to the untrained eye.
Vehicles with hidden accident-related damage may have serious unresolved issues such as:
- Frame or structural damage. This can compromise the vehicle’s safety and drivability and involve additional costly repairs to bring the vehicle back to roadworthy condition.
- Electrical or sensor problems. A vehicle’s airbags, modules and sensors may not work after improper repair, causing a slew of electrical faults, problems and safety risks.
- Reduced resale value. Even if the car runs perfectly, when you attempt to sell it the fact that it has been in a prior accident is not something buyers want to hear or see, making a car with accident history less desirable on the open market.
- Insurance surprises. Your insurance premiums could be higher with a vehicle with extensive accident and total loss history.
Having as much information as possible about the vehicle’s history, including past accident events and insurance claims, can make a massive difference and help guide you in the car buying decision process.
