Buying a used car is a big move, and it can be risky if you don’t know what to look for. Many sellers try to cover up issues that end up costing buyers a lot in repairs, safety, and reliability.
A lot of these problems aren’t easy to spot unless you know the signs. This guide runs through 10 common issues dealers often try to hide and how to pick them up
before they become your problem. With a bit of know-how and a good inspection, you can avoid expensive mistakes and make sure your next used car is a smart buy.
Read also: Understanding used car warranty Victoria
Accident History
Accidents are common in the used car market, but not all sellers are upfront about a car’s history. They may attempt to hide a vehicle’s past collisions, whether minor fender benders
or serious accidents, to avoid losing the sale. Even small accidents can result in hidden frame damage, airbag deployment, or structural issues that compromise the car's safety.
Tip: Always request a vehicle history report, and pay close attention to any signs of bodywork inconsistencies, like mismatched paint or uneven panel gaps. A detailed inspection can help identify any hidden damage.
Odometer Rollback
Odometer rollback is a form of fraud where the mileage on the car’s odometer is illegally reduced, making it appear as though the vehicle has been driven fewer miles than it actually has. This practice inflates the car’s resale value, but it can also mask wear-and-tear on the engine and other components.
Tip: As this is now an electronic tampering issue, it will not help to look for any signs of tampering around the odometer, so you will need to compare the mileage with service records or
inspection reports. A mechanic can also check if the vehicle’s wear aligns with the stated mileage, as well as in many hidden electronic control unit sub-screens.
Flood Damage
Flood-damaged cars are often sold without full disclosure, especially after heavy rains ornatural disasters. While flood damage may not be immediately visible, it can lead to serious
long-term issues such as rust, electrical malfunctions, and mould growth, which can affect both the safety and value of the car.
Tip: Check for signs of water damage, such as rust under the vehicle, musty smells inside, or water stains in places like the trunk or glove compartment. Also, use the VIN to check for
flood history using Carfax or similar services.
Frame Damage
Frame damage is one of the most serious issues in a used car. If a car has been involved in a major accident, the frame can become bent or compromised, which affects the overall
integrity and safety of the vehicle. Dealers often attempt to hide this issue to make the car more marketable.
Tip: During your inspection, make sure to look closely at the vehicle’s frame. Look for signs of welding, uneven gaps between panels, or any parts that don’t seem to line up correctly. A
professional inspection can confirm if there’s any frame damage.
Mechanical Problems
Used cars are often sold with underlying mechanical issues that aren’t immediately obvious, such as engine problems, suspension failures, or transmission issues. These issues can be
costly to repair, especially if you don’t catch them early.
Tip: Have a mechanic perform a thorough inspection of the car’s mechanical systems, focusing on the engine, transmission, and exhaust system. Pay attention to any unusual noises,
vibrations, or smells when driving the car.
Unresolved Recalls
Many used cars have unresolved recalls that the dealer may not address before selling the vehicle. A recall can range from minor to serious safety issues, and failing to fix these issues
can put you at risk after purchasing the car.
Tip: Before buying, check the car’s recall history on the relevant website. You can enter the car’s VIN to see if there are any outstanding recalls that need to be addressed.
Title Issues (Salvage/Rebuilt)
A salvage title means the car has been severely damaged, usually in an accident, fire, or flood, and the insurance company deemed it a total loss. Sellers may sell these cars without
disclosing the salvage or rebuilt status, making them appear more valuable than they are. Cars with salvage titles can be hard to insure and difficult to sell, plus the repairs may
present intermittent or long term issues.
Tip: Ask for a copy of the car’s title. If the car has a salvage or rebuilt title, you’ll know it’s been in a major incident. Always check the title history for any red flags before agreeing to the
purchase.
Excessive Wear and Tear
Used cars, especially those with high mileage, often show signs of wear and tear. Dealers may hide or downplay these issues, such as worn-out tyres, faded paint, or cracked upholstery, to make the car look better than it is. While some wear is normal, excessive wear indicates poor maintenance or neglect.
Tip: Inspect the car thoroughly, checking the tyres, paint, seats, and dashboard. If certain areas look excessively worn, it could be a sign the car wasn’t well-maintained. Make sure the wear
is consistent with the car’s age and mileage.
Non-Functional Features
Sellers may sell cars with non-functional features like broken air conditioning, faulty electronics, or malfunctioning safety systems without disclosing these issues. While some of these problems may seem minor, they can be costly to fix and may affect your comfort and safety.
Tip: Before buying, check every feature to ensure it works—air conditioning, lights, safety systems (such as airbags and ABS), and electronics like the stereo and power windows. Don’t assume the car’s features will work just because they look fine.
Poor Maintenance Records
A lack of maintenance records is a red flag. If a dealer doesn’t provide service records or if the car has an incomplete history, it’s difficult to know whether the vehicle has been properly maintained or if it’s had issues in the past. Poor maintenance can lead to long-term problems and costly repairs. Also resale value is impacted.
Tip: Always ask for the car’s maintenance records. If the dealer can’t provide them, be cautious. Consider walking away or having a trusted mechanic perform a detailed inspection to ensure
there aren’t hidden issues.
Read also: Should you buy a used car without complete service records?
Conclusion
Used cars can save you money, but they often hide problems that lead to expensive repairs. If you're eyeing a used car right now, consider getting it checked by professionals. Klaus brings over 35 years of expertise in the automotive industry, to pre-purchase inspections, covering all vehicle types and conditions. If you're buying a used car or want a professional evaluation of your current vehicle in the Melbourne or regional Victoria area, we got you.
Don’t risk it, book your inspection and drive confidently, knowing your car is safe and reliable.