Buying a used car? You’ve probably heard horror stories of buyers driving away with what they thought was a steal, only to find out later that their new ride had a secret past—like a soap opera character with a hidden twin.
One moment, you’re excited about your “new” wheels, and the next, you’re discovering dodgy repairs, questionable paint jobs, or worse, a frame that’s seen more knocks than a pub door during happy hour.
So, how do you avoid becoming the next tragic tale in the used car saga? Simple. You need to perform a car accident check. And the good news is, you don’t have to be Sherlock Holmes to do it.
Spotting a car that’s been in a bump: The Clues are in the details
Before diving into online accident checks, start with the old-fashioned visual inspection first. Here are key signs to watch for:
- Paint Mismatch
Check for uneven paint or splashes in odd places. A patchy paint job could be hiding more than just cosmetic damage. - Doors Not Closing Properly
If the doors don’t close smoothly or need extra effort, it’s a sign of previous bodywork. Damaged frames can warp doors after an accident. - Tyre Wear
Look for uneven tyre wear. It might signal alignment issues caused by an accident. Don’t forget to check the treads—worn-out tyres may indicate neglect. - Welding Marks
Examine the welding under the bonnet. Rough, jagged welds often mean the car has been repaired after serious damage. - Panel Gaps
Inspect the gaps between panels like the bonnet, doors, or boot. If they’re uneven, it may be a clue the car has had parts replaced or poorly repaired. - Rust Spots
Rust around the edges of the car, especially on the undercarriage, could mean previous repairs were done poorly, allowing moisture to seep in. - Headlight Alignment
Check the headlights. If they aren’t aligned properly or one looks newer than the other, it’s possible the car has been in a front-end collision.
Online accident checks: Because we live in the digital age, after all
Now that you’ve done the physical check, it’s time to go online. In the UK, several services let you check the accident history of a car—some for free, others for a small fee. All you need is the vehicle’s registration number or VIN, and you’re good to go.
But why stop there? Let’s look at some cold, hard stats. According to the Motor Insurance Bureau, about one in five used cars on the market has been in an accident. That’s right, 20% of the cars you see could have a bit of a history.
By performing an online check, you’re not only saving yourself from potential heartbreak but also protecting your wallet from unexpected repair bills. For more detailed information on road accidents and safety, check out the Gov.uk official accident and safety statistics.
How to perform a car accident check online
Performing an online car accident check in the UK is easier than making a cup of tea. Here’s what you do:
- Grab the Registration Number: It’s like the car’s ID badge—without it, you’re not getting in.
- Use Trusted Online Services: Websites like Car Analytics or The Auto Experts MOT history checker are your go-to tools. Just pop in the reg number, and they’ll spill the beans on any past accidents.
- Check the MOT History: The MOT history can tell you if the car’s been through the wars. Look for any notes about accident repairs or major fixes.
Why bother with a car accident history check?
Here’s why it’s worth your time:
- Save Money: You can avoid overpaying for a car that’s been poorly repaired. Negotiate or walk away.
- Avoid Scams: An accident check helps you spot dishonest sellers trying to hide damage.
- Peace of Mind: You wouldn’t buy a house without knowing its history, so why would you buy a car without checking if it’s been in a smash-up? A clean history gives you the confidence to hit the road without worries.
What If the car has been in an accident?
To answer this question, ask another: “How much repair work did my car need?”
If the check reveals the car’s had a shunt, don’t panic. Ask yourself, “Is my car worth less after an accident?” Well, it depends. If it was just a minor bump, you might still be in the clear. But if the car was a total write-off and then resurrected, you’ll need to think twice before handing over your hard-earned cash.
That is, suppose your insurance provider considers the damage significant (e.g., the repair costs exceed their willingness to pay). In that case, the vehicle will likely be categorized as a total loss, and a notation will be added to its record.
Fleet car owners might opt to sell the vehicle as damaged from an accident rather than filing a claim for repairs through their insurer.
The Bottom Line: Don’t get taken for a ride
In the end, whether you’re a buyer, seller, or dealer, knowing the vehicle accident history is crucial. It’s not just about avoiding a lemon; it’s about making an informed decision that keeps you safe on the road and happy with your purchase.
Frequently asked questions
How recent should the accident information be in a car history report?
Ideally, a car history report should include accidents from the past five years. However, older accidents may also be relevant, especially if they impact the car’s safety or value. In our car analytics report accident markers from the MIAFTR records will appear ensuring you’re getting a reliable, quality car.
Should a dealer or seller report an accident on a vehicle?
Yes, both dealers and private sellers should report any accidents. Failing to disclose this information can lead to legal issues and damage reputations.
Is a damaged car insured if it has been previously owned?
Insurance companies will review the car’s history and damage evidence. They may need documentation or repair details. Insurance approval depends on individual assessment, but careful documentation helps.
If a car’s been in an accident, should I be worried about the airbags?
Yes, and here’s why: if a car’s been in a serious crash, the airbags might’ve deployed. Replacing them isn’t cheap, and if they weren’t replaced properly, they might not work the next time you need them. Always check the service history for airbag replacements.
Can I check if a car’s been in an accident using my phone?
Absolutely! You can use apps or websites to check a car’s accident history on the go. Just punch in the registration number while you’re at the websites and get the dirt on the car’s past.
