Are there any other ways to check for damage or misuse of a car?

Question

I did the whole Carfax thing and it was clean. It just worries me because the price of the vehicle is pretty good and its at a dealership close to my house.
The only issue is with a defective part that is covered under warranty. This is a RARE vehicle so the defective thing doesn't bother me. I want to make sure there is no damage that could have been repaired and not registered with the DMV or Carfax.

Answer 1

Hi Bob,

You might check the link below for some articles that may be useful.

You should inspect for signs of overspray (samples and pics at the url below), inspect for signs of repairs along the frame rails, perhaps even remove the inner truck liner and inspect inside for signs of repairs and/or repainting.

There is a tool that you can purchase that will measure the paint thickness with and determine if it's been repainted or repaired, it's called simply a paint thickness gauge, you can purchase this at most paint supply stores. But depending on which type you purchase, it may not work on anything but a metal surface.

You can also purchase one of these tools that is digital and will measure the thickness on most any type surface. They aren't cheap so you may not want to purchase now that you've already bought your car. ($120.00)

Another tell-tell sign is the evidence of pinstripes, decals etc that have been "cleared over", if these stripes appear to be underneath a coat of clear paint, then most likely it's been repainted. This clear coat is common with after market body shops, it also tends to peel away, especially from seems and plastic panels such as front and rear bumpers.

It's not just body/paint repairs that you should look for, you should also inspect for signs of flood/water damages and or repairs as well.

A quality test drive is essential as well, not just a spin around the block. Because some noises, conditions and problems may be temperature related, It should be driven when the engine is cold at a minimum of 25 miles, different road speeds and road surfaces and pay attention to any abnormal noises.

Jerry Christopher
http://www.usedcarwise.com

Answer 2

Take it to a competent mechanic of your choice and pay for an inspection if you are ready to buy the car. It should cost around $100, and your mechanic should give it a thorough inspection. AAA inspects in some areas too. When up on a lift, they can see the grip points and repair of any bent frame members and a lot of sheet metal repair you can't see when it's on the ground. They can check the alignment front and back to make sure it's straight and tracks properly. If you take a magnet (you might want to wrap it in a napkin first so you don't scratch), you can see if there is any serious bondo repair because the magnet won't stick as well or at all to areas that have been filled in with putty. Take a good look and make sure it's straight (put your head at the front and back fenders and look down the sides). After you've done all you can, you still have to trust your dealer. You can check them out through your local Better Business Bureau.

Answer 3

Check for scratches along the underside of the car to make sure it's not jumped any curbs.
Check the gaps between body panels, they should be even.
Check the wheels by pulling on them, there should be no movement. If it wobbles or knocks there's problems.
Check under the hood for any panels that look out of shape particurly by the radiator. A good indicator is the manufacturers stickers, if there damaged theres been front end work done.
Lift the carpet in the trunk and look for paint defects.
Test drive as much as possible.

Good luck

Remember Carfax has a gaurantee too

Answer 4

you can never know if nothing has been reported..carfax is the only way.

i bought my acura with a clean carfax but i do suspect it was rear ended or the chick backed into something..no big deal though..it was all fixed and it doesnt bother me.i also suspect it was broken into and the stock deck was stolen..when i bought it the car alarm was all cut up..

Answer 5

Buy the car, buy the extra warranty that they sell. If anything happens you are covered. If after a few month everything is okay you can cancel the extra coverage.

Answer 6

get the VIN number from the car, then you can look it up online and get a report of the car's history, crashes, problems, etc. It will cost you though, but in the end its worth it... oh, sounds like you already did that. I guess its just taking a chance then.

Answer 7

Look under the car for any scratches, rust or leaks.