Things To Know About Buying A Used Car With An Accident History: 4 Tips From Capitol Subaru In Salem

August 14, 2019

Once a car has been in a major accident, it's just not usually as safe or reliable as before. Even after a major repair service, there could be crumple zones that have been weakened, frame rails that have been bent, and all sorts of other hidden damage. If repaired by a diligent crew of talented mechanics, such a car could be made roadworthy again -- but some cut-rate body shops will skimp on repairs or not have the best technicians. Such places have even been known to replace airbags that have detonated with dummy airbags! You wouldn't know about that, until you found yourself in an accident and it was too late.

Buying used, pre-owned cars that are still running but have been in an accident can help you get more car for less money -- but it's a risky proposition. With these four tips from the Capitol Subaru service department, you'll learn more about a used car, what to look for in its history and whether or not it's a smart fit for you and your budget.

4. Is The Title Clean Or Salvage/Rebuilt?

Here in the United States, a vehicle that's been in a significant accident will indicate as much on the vehicle's title. According to the Oregon DMV, "Oregon Salvage Title Certificate is a legal document that indicates the vehicle was totaled, wrecked, dismantled, stolen, or abandoned." Because they've suffered some serious damage, salvage title vehicles are often difficult to sell, and may not be reliable long-term -- but that also means they're inexpensive. If a salvage car is repaired and passes a basic safety inspection, it may instead have a "rebuilt" title.

If you're in need of a pre-owned car for as little as possible, you might consider a vehicle with a rebuilt or salvage title. If you do, there are a few steps you should take to evaluate the vehicle and see if it's going to work for you long-term.

3. Does The Accident Show Up On The Vehicle History Report?

Most reputable used car dealers will provide you with a vehicle's history report from agencies like CARFAX and AutoCheck at no cost to you. Here at Capitol Subaru, you can check out the CARFAX for vehicles in our used car inventory right on our site!

The CARFAX report should include history of the accident or other incident that gave the vehicle its salvage/rebuilt title. You can check the vehicle history for notes about the accident -- what was damaged, whether the vehicle was driven or towed from the scene, and how long ago the accident was. You may also be able to find out where the repairs were carried out. It's not a bad idea to call the body shop where repairs were made and ask about the vehicle, how the repairs went, and whether or not they'd recommend buying the car.

2. How Did The Test Drive Go?

So, you've found a vehicle that fits your budget, but it's got a salvage title. You got as much information you could about the accident, and you're still feeling pretty good about the car. Now is the time for a test drive, and don't just take it on a spin around the lot. Make sure you pay close attention, put the vehicle through its paces, and get it up to highway cruising speed for a while to see how it feels. Odd noises or anything that feels "off" about the vehicle might indicate a needed repair that was missed, or an underlying problem that will plague the vehicle for the rest of its life. That's a car you'll want to avoid.

But, if the test drive went well, that's a good sign! One more thing you can do for peace of mind that we recommend for all pre-owned car purchases: have a certified mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection of the vehicle. Available at most every service garage for about $50-$100, a pre-purchase inspection by a trained professional can help you make a smart decision. Have an independent expert examine the vehicle closely. If they like the way repairs were carried out and it seems mechanically sound, they might just tell you to pull the trigger -- or, if the mechanic finds problems that could lead to costly repairs down the road, they can help you steer clear of the wrong used car.

1. Is The Vehicle Priced Right Considering Its History?

Once you've done your research on a vehicle with a salvage title, you might find one that you're confident will run well for years to come. But it's still not likely to be as reliable as a vehicle that hasn't been in an accident. So, when price checking, be sure to compare the vehicle you're interested in against similar vehicles with clean titles. You shouldn't pay as much for a salvage title vehicle as you would one with similar miles and a clean title.

While not recommended for everyone, a salvage title vehicle can help you get the pre-owned car you're looking for -- for less. When you want to check out a broad selection of quality used cars for all sorts of needs and budgets, visit Capitol Subaru!