Buying a used car can be a great way to save money, but it’s essential to ensure that the vehicle hasn’t been involved in a major accident. Accidents can affect a car’s structural integrity, safety, and resale value. In India, several methods can help verify whether a car has been in an accident. Here’s a comprehensive guide to checking a vehicle’s accident history.
1. Check Online Records
A. VAHAN Portal (Parivahan Website)
The VAHAN portal, managed by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, provides vehicle registration details, including past accidents (if reported).
- Website: https://vahan.parivahan.gov.in
- Steps to check accident history:
- Visit the VAHAN portal.
- Enter the vehicle’s registration number.
- Check for any accident-related entries under the vehicle details.
B. Insurance Information Bureau (IIB) Portal
The Insurance Information Bureau of India (IIB) keeps track of accident claims and insurance history.
- Website: https://iib.gov.in
- Steps to check accident claims:
- Visit the IIB portal.
- Enter details like vehicle registration number, chassis number, or engine number.
- Review past insurance claims related to accidents.
C. RTO Records and Police Reports
You can visit the Regional Transport Office (RTO) or the local police station to request accident-related information about the vehicle. Some states maintain public records of reported accidents.
2. Physical Inspection of the Car
A. Look for Signs of Repair
- Paint Mismatch: If the car has different shades of paint on various parts, it might have been repainted after an accident.
- Uneven Panel Gaps: Gaps between the doors, bonnet, or bumper can indicate previous repairs.
- Rust or Welding Marks: Excessive rust or welding marks, especially under the hood or doors, may indicate structural damage.
B. Check the Chassis Number
The chassis number is a unique identifier for a vehicle and can be found:
- On the engine bay
- Under the driver’s seat
- Inside the door frame, If the chassis number appears tampered with, the car may have been involved in an accident and modified.
C. Inspect the Frame and Suspension
- Bent or welded frame: A bent or re-welded frame suggests accident damage.
- Uneven tire wear: This may indicate alignment issues due to an accident.
- Suspension replacement: If the suspension has been replaced, it could be due to a past collision.
3. Get a Professional Vehicle Inspection
If you are unsure, consider getting the car inspected by a trusted mechanic or at an authorized service center. They can check for:
- Engine and transmission health
- Structural damage
- Airbag deployment history
4. Check Service and Insurance Records
Ask the seller for service records to check for major repairs or part replacements. Look for:
- Airbag replacements (indicating a previous crash)
- Major structural repairs (e.g., frame or chassis work)
- Repeated claims on the insurance policy
Conclusion
Buying a used car in Kerala can be a great investment, but it’s essential to check its accident history before making a purchase. By inspecting the car’s bodywork, reviewing service records, and using online verification tools like VAHAN, you can ensure you’re getting a vehicle in good condition. A professional inspection and a test drive can further confirm any hidden damages. Being thorough in your evaluation will help you avoid unexpected repair costs and ensure a smooth ownership experience. Whether you’re purchasing from a dealership or an individual seller, these steps will help you make a confident and informed decision when buying a used car in Kerala.
