How to Check If a Used Luxury Car Has Been in an Accident
Buying into a used luxury car is a great way to experience premium comfort, advanced tech, and great performance at a lower price. That said, before you finalize the deal, it is very important to know how to determine if a used luxury car has had an accident. Accident history can affect safety, resale value, and long-term reliability. Thus, a thorough inspection is a must for peace of mind.
In our blog we present to you easy-to-follow buying tips, and also we go into the professional inspection process that certified dealers use.
Used Luxury Car Accident Impact on Safety and Value
Luxury cars are the products of precise engineering and complex safety systems. But in the event of an accident, these systems may not perform as well as before. Also, it is the experience that accident-repaired vehicles develop issues that may go unnoticed over time.
Problems Linked to Accident-Damaged Luxury Cars
- Structural safety concerns
- Steering and suspension imbalance
- Airbag or sensor malfunction
- Lower resale value
- Increased maintenance costs
Thus, when buying pre-owned luxury vehicles, we see to it that we check the accident history.
Signs of Used Luxury Car Accident Damage
At first, we begin with a thorough visual check. Though cosmetic repairs may cover up the damage, sometimes very small telltale signs are present.
Body Panel and Paint Signs of Used Luxury Car Accident
Check over the gaps at the doors, bonnet, and boot. Out-of-alignment gaps are a sign of past repair work. Also note any color differences in paint at the rubber seals, which are a result of repainting after an accident.
Lights and Glass Inspection
Also note the manufacture dates of headlights, tail lamps, and windshield glass. Outdated parts may be from an accident.
Chassis and Underbody Used Luxury Car Accident Check
While external issues may be easily remedied, structural damage is something very serious we must deal with. That is to say that underbody inspection should never be left out.
Frame and Suspension Check
A lift inspection also reports which structural issues are present, such as bends and cracks. Also, if the car is pulling to a certain side during the test drive, that may indicate suspension or alignment damage.
Service Records and Vehicle History Check
Documentation also tells a different story, which in turn may be more in-depth than what the eyes present. Also, service records are very useful in identifying accident involvement.
Insurance and Service History Review
Request authorized service records and insurance claim info. Also check VIN and chassis numbers against each other as well as the vehicle body.
Electronic Diagnostics and Airbag Scan
Today’s luxury cars log accident data in their systems. Hence, an OBD diagnostic scan is a must.
Diagnostic and Safety System Check
Scanning will show airbag deployment, crash data, and sensor faults, which may be covered up by repairs. For safety standards comparison, also see Euro NCAP crash ratings.
Professional Inspection at Certified Dealerships
Although they help you do a personal check, the certified dealership inspection is what you can count on.
Certified Multi-Point Inspection Process
- Exterior and paint thickness check
- Chassis and underbody inspection
- Engine, transmission, and suspension evaluation
- Diagnostic scan and road test
Certified dealers also do accident and flood damage reports. To check out verified cars or to book an inspection, visit:.
https://acscars.co.in/contact-us/
Conclusion
Knowing how to identify a previously owned luxury car that has been in an accident will help buyers avoid big mistakes. It is true that luxury cars may look to be in great condition from the outside, but what they hide can affect safety and your ownership experience. Also, it is best to use a combination of visual inspection, document check, diagnostics, and certified inspection.
For quality preowned luxury cars and expert advice, go to trusted and certified sellers.