It’s not just about that shiny paint restoration job on the used car. It’s about what that paint can tell you. A car’s exterior hides a story, and learning to spot the signs could save you a ton of money and headaches later on.
What to Look For in Used Cars in Australia?
Faded paint is often a sign of poor maintenance or too much time baking in the sun.
Scratches might look minor. But deeper ones can lead to rust over time.
Mismatched panels are usually a big red flag for past accidents or repairs the seller didn’t mention.
Rust is another thing to watch for. Especially around wheel wells, door frames and edges of the panels. Rust isn’t just cosmetic. It often points to deeper and more expensive issues under the surface.
Used Car Paintwork Assessment | Tools to Make It Easier
A small torch can go a long way to spot imperfections that showroom lighting hides. Paint depth gauges(show variations in thickness) are also super handy for finding areas where bodywork has been done-
And don’t forget to inspect the car during the day! Walk around it from different angles and run your hand over the paint to feel for any rough patches or raised spots you might miss with your eyes to spot paint repairs.
Also Read: The most common used car issues for Aussie drivers.
When to Call in the Pros?
If you spot anything you’re unsure about or if you just want peace of mind, getting a professional inspection is worth it. The experts can catch subtle signs of accident damage, flood damage or poor repairs that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Greasemonkey Inspectors can give you that extra confidence for buyers in Australia and we specialise in detailed pre-purchase inspections.
Taking the time to inspect a used car’s paint can save you from expensive surprises later. Play it smart, and you’ll drive away with a car that’s ready to perform for years to come!