How To Check If Your Car Has Been in an Accident: Tell-tale Signs

Purchasing a used car in Singapore can be a great way to save money, but it also comes with risks. You may have spotted your dream car at an attractive price, but a deal that seems too good to be true often is. One of the biggest concerns when buying a second-hand vehicle is whether it has been involved in an accident. A car that has been in a serious accident may have hidden structural damage, which can affect its safety, performance, and resale value.

It is crucial to verify that the vehicle is accident-free to avoid potential problems that may arise from poorly repaired cars.

To ensure you’re making a safe investment, here are some key signs to look out for when checking if a used car has been in an accident.

Understanding the Importance of Accident History

When buying a used car, it’s essential to understand the importance of accident history. A car that has been in an accident may have hidden damage that can affect its performance, safety, and overall value. Even if the car looks fine on the surface, there could be underlying issues that can cause problems down the road. That’s why it’s crucial to check the car’s accident history and look for any obvious signs of damage or repairs. Knowing the full history of a used car can help you make a more informed decision and avoid potential headaches in the future.

1. Paint and Bodywork: Uneven Finishes

At first glance, the car may look pristine, but upon closer inspection, there could be tell-tale signs of past repairs. Here’s what to check:

• Inconsistent Paintwork: Walk around the car and examine the colour of all the panels. If some areas appear shinier or have a slightly different shade, this could indicate repainting due to repairs.
• Rough or Uneven Texture: Run your hand along the surface of the car. If you feel rough patches, bubbling, or irregularities in the paint, it could be a sign of bodywork that has been poorly done.
• Dents or Filler Marks: Look at the car under bright daylight. If you notice any uneven surfaces, the car might have had body filler applied after a collision.

2. Panel Gaps and Misaligned Doors

Parts of the car that open and close should be tested for alignment issues. If the doors, bonnet, or boot don’t shut smoothly or sit flush with the rest of the body, this could indicate accident damage and that the car might not be properly aligned. Here’s how to check:

• Close all doors and examine the panel gaps – they should be even.
• The front and rear bumper should fit seamlessly; if they are misaligned or appear loose, the car may have been involved in a crash.
• Open the bonnet and check if the fenders align properly. Any misalignment suggests previous damage.

3. Tyre and Suspension Issues

Tyres can reveal hidden problems that may not be immediately visible.

• Uneven Tyre Wear: If the tread on one side is significantly more worn than the other, the vehicle might have a misaligned wheel or damaged suspension. Uneven tyre wear or mismatched tyres could be a result of the car being hit in an accident.
• Mismatched Tyres: If one tyre is much newer than the others, it could indicate a replacement due to an accident.
• Check the Manufacturing Date: Tyres older than six years should be replaced for safety reasons. The date is usually printed on the tyre sidewall.

Read our blog for more information on car tyre and wheel checks.

4. Undercarriage and Structural Damage

Get down under the car and inspect the underbody for signs of accident repairs.

• Fresh Undercoating: If the wheel wells and undercarriage have a fresh rubberised coating, this may be an attempt to cover up structural damage.
• Visible Rust or Welding Marks: Rust, particularly in areas where there shouldn’t be any, or visible welding marks, are signs of previous structural repairs.
• Bent or Damaged Chassis: Any distortion in the underbody or chassis suggests a major accident in the past.

5. Smell Test: Signs of Water or Flood Damage

A damp or mouldy smell inside the car can be a red flag for flood damage. Some sellers try to mask it with excessive air fresheners. Signs of flood damage include:

• Water Stains on Seats and Carpets
• Rust Around Screws and Metal Components Inside the Car
• Fogging Inside Headlights or Tail Lights

Flood-damaged cars can suffer from severe electrical issues, so be cautious.

6. Windscreen and Headlights: Subtle Clues

While rare, a cracked windscreen can indicate previous impact damage. Additionally, examine the headlights:

• One headlight looks newer than the other: This could mean one was replaced due to a front-end collision.
• Improperly Aligned Headlights: If they don’t line up correctly, the car might have suffered a front-end impact.

7. Strange Noises During a Test Drive

Never buy a used car without taking it for a test drive. Listen for any unusual sounds:

• Knocking or Tapping from the Engine: Could signal engine damage from an accident.
• Grinding Brakes: May indicate a lack of maintenance or potential brake system issues.
• Metal-to-Metal Noises: Suggests damaged suspension or undercarriage components.

8. Checking for Repairs or Replacements

When inspecting a used car, it’s essential to check for any repairs or replacements that may have been made. Look for any signs of welding, patchwork, or repainting, which could indicate that the car has been in an accident. Pay close attention to the body panels, doors, and wheel wells for any signs of damage or repairs. These areas are often where damage is most visible. Additionally, review the car’s documentation to see if there are any records of repairs or replacements. This can provide further insight into the car’s history and help you determine if it has been properly maintained.

9. Getting a Professional Vehicle Inspection

While it’s essential to do your own research and inspection, it’s also important to get a professional inspection done. A mechanic or a car inspector can check the car’s engine, transmission, and other critical components to ensure that they are in good condition. They can also check for any signs of damage or repairs that may not be visible to the naked eye. A professional inspection can give you peace of mind and help you avoid any potential problems down the road. Investing in a professional inspection is a small price to pay for the assurance that you’re making a sound purchase.

For Detailed Vehicle Condition Assessment: Engage AAS or reputable vehicle inspection centres like STA and VICOM for thorough evaluations.

10. Checking the Car’s Accident History in Singapore

One of the most effective ways to verify if a used car has been in an accident is to check its accident history. In Singapore, you can:

• Request the current vehicle owner to buy a Vehicle Accident Report History (VARH) by General Insurance Association (GIA). This provides dates of accident reports made by previous owners or drivers of the vehicle over the past six years. However, it is only available to current vehicle owners through the GIA Easy Accident Reporting System (GEARS). Each report is priced at S$90 plus prevailing GST. Since prospective buyers cannot purchase the report themselves, offering to cover the fee may encourage the current vehicle owner's cooperation.
• You can request the current vehicle owner to retrieve a vehicle history report from the Land Transport Authority on the platform OneMotoring. This will include details such as the vehicle log card and outstanding road tax and inspection records. However, accident and maintenance histories are not included in LTA’s records.

11. What to Do If You Find Signs of an Accident

If you find signs of an accident or damage during your inspection, it’s essential to take action. First, don’t panic. Instead, take a closer look at the damage and try to assess its extent. If the damage is minor, you may be able to negotiate a lower price with the dealer. However, if the damage is significant, it may be best to walk away from the deal. Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry, and buying a car that has been in an accident can be a risky proposition. Trust your instincts and make sure you’re comfortable with the condition of the vehicle before making a purchase.

FAQ: Common Questions About Used Cars and Accidents in Singapore

How to check car accident history in Singapore?

You can request the current vehicle owner to buy a Vehicle Accident Report History (VARH) by the General Insurance Association (GIA). This Provides dates of accident reports made by previous owners or drivers of the vehicle over the past six years. And is available to current vehicle owners through the GIA Easy Accident Reporting System (GEARS). Each report is priced at S$90 plus prevailing GST. Offering to cover the vehicle owner's fee may encourage their cooperation.

How to check if car has been in accident?

Look for signs of an accident such as uneven paint, misaligned panels, frame damage, and inconsistent headlights. Additionally, requesting the current vehicle owner to buy a vehicle accident report through official databases can confirm past accidents.

Can I buy a used car that has been in an accident?

Yes, but it depends on the severity of the accident. Minor accidents with proper repairs may not impact the car’s safety, but major collisions could lead to long-term structural issues.

Is it safe to buy a car with accident history?

It depends on how well the car was repaired. Have a professional mechanic inspect the vehicle before making a purchase.

What and where is the VIN ((Vehicle Identification Number) on a car in Singapore?

The VIN is a unique 17-character code assigned to every vehicle. It provides key details about the car's manufacture, model, and specifications.

You can look for the VIN in the following places:

• On the Vehicle Log Card (Registration Card)
• On the Dashboard
• On the Driver’s Side Door Frame
• Under the Hood
• In the Spare Tyre Compartment or Boot
• On Insurance and Road Tax Documents
• Your insurance policy and road tax renewal notice should also list the VIN.

What should I do before buying a used car in Singapore?

• Check its accident history. You can request the current vehicle owner to buy a Vehicle Accident Report History (VARH) by), GIA's GEARS (General Insurance Association’s Easy Accident Reporting System), or via private services.
• Inspect the car for signs of damage by checking the bodywork, suspension, and alignment.
• Take it for a test drive to listen for any unusual noises and assess handling.
• Verify the service and maintenance records to ensure the car has been properly maintained.

Final Thoughts: Buying a used car in Singapore requires thorough checks to ensure you’re not purchasing a vehicle with hidden accident damage. By following these steps, conducting an accident history check, and staying vigilant for tell-tale signs, you can make an informed decision and avoid costly repairs down the road.

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