Other than the obvious dent or smashed bumper, there are a few simple things you can do if you suspect a car has been involved in an accident. Here are a few things to try, all requiring little more than a keen eye, a magnet, a flashlight and knowing where to look.

A Quick Look: Stand either behind or in front of the car at an angle where you can see the entire right or left side of the car and look for a smooth finish. If you see ripples in the body, it’s a good indicator that the car has been in an accident.

Doors, Hood and Trunk: If gaps between the doors, hood or trunk are too wide - or are different on each side - this should send up a red flag that something isn’t right. Doors, trunk and hood should open and close firmly without any wide gaps or loose mechanicals. While you’ve got the trunk open, turn on your flashlight and have a good look inside, pulling up the carpet to make sure the trunk and sides are smooth, the rear wheel wells should also be smooth and round.

The Magnet Trick: Hold a magnet in your hand a fraction of an inch above the car body, just enough to feel it pull toward the car. Pass the magnet over the body {you can put it on the car as well, but you don’t want to move it around because it will scratch the paint, so just stick it to the area, pick it up and stick it to another area}. If you come across an area where the magnet isn’t pulling toward the car, or doesn’t stick, it could be a sign of body filler, which means that filler was used to repair a damaged area. Use the magnet on the same area on the opposite side of the car just to be sure. Keep in mind that this trick won’t work on Corvettes, Saturns or any car that doesn’t use metal in the rear quarter panel.

Paint Overspray: Check for paint overspray on areas that aren’t supposed to be painted, like knobs and hoses, which means checking under the hood, too, paying special attention to the engine. Make sure metal surfaces are smooth and match evenly with the inside of the engine compartment.

Tags: Advice, Guides //