Knowing the difference between frame damage and cosmetic damage can save you a ton of money when buying a second-hand car and help you avoid dangerous situations. This is where a second-hand car check comes in. Let’s break it down so you can make a confident decision.
What is Frame Damage?
Frame damage is serious business. It happens when the car’s chassis or unibody structure is bent, twisted, or compromised, usually from an accident or impact. This isn’t just about the car looking bad. Frame damage can make it unsafe to drive and seriously hurt its value.
Here are some signs of frame damage to watch out for:
- Uneven gaps between panels
- Doors or windows that don’t close properly
- Weird tire wear patterns
- The car pulling to one side while driving
What About Cosmetic Damage?
Cosmetic damage is all about looks. Think scratches, dents, worn interiors or the car paintwork. It doesn’t affect how the car actually drives or its safety. But it might lower the resale value.
Common examples of cosmetic damage include:
- Small scratches and dents
- Faded or chipped paint
- Worn-out upholstery or trim
- Minor rust on non-structural areas
Spotting the Difference in Melbourne
Some frame damage can be well-hidden. That’s why a professional car inspection in Melbourne is key. They use special tools to check things like alignment, frame measurements and suspension mounting points. They’ll spot issues you might miss with the naked eye.
A thorough car pre-purchase inspection in Melbourne will look at everything, from weld quality to tiny structural details. It’s all about catching the red flags before they become your problem.
Second-Hand Car Check | Protect Your Investment with an Inspection
Don’t guess when it comes to safety and money. Frame damage can be hidden, so a professional vehicle inspection is a must when buying used.
At Greasemonkey Inspectors, we’ve got your back. We provide detailed vehicle inspection reports to help you spot both obvious cosmetic flaws and those sneaky structural problems.
Book your second-hand car check today and drive away knowing your new ride is safe, sound, and worth every dollar.