How to spot hidden Frame Damage during inspection?
I’m inspecting a salvage car tomorrow. What are the “red flags” I should look for to ensure the frame isn’t bent?
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I didn’t know about underbody checks. Is it necessary to lift the car or can we see it without that?
From my experience, always inspect the underbody. Look for bends, weld marks, or fresh paint on the frame. That’s a big red flag.
Yes, panel gaps are important. Also check if the car pulls to one side while driving. That usually indicates alignment or frame issues.
I think the first thing to check is uneven gaps between doors and panels. If the spacing looks off, it can be a sign of frame damage.
Check the door gaps for unevenness and look for fresh welding marks on the rails. A quick “alignment test” during a test drive is also a must.
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It’s better to lift the car, but you can still check by crouching and using a flashlight. Focus on rails and joints.