Tips To Avoid Buying A Rebuilt Wrecked Car

Unbeknownst to consumers, some unscrupulous dealers have been selling
poorly-rebuilt salvaged cars, which are dangerously unsafe and overpriced.
Typically, the cars were involved in major accidents or floods. They look
fine because of cosmetic repairs; however, they may have defective brakes,
steering problems, faulty and inadequate welds, and poorly aligned
structures.

The Consumer Federation of America lists the following guidelines for
determining if a car has been wrecked:

Check to see that the paint on the outside of the door matches the paint
inside the door frame.
Make sure that the parts of the car line up with each other. Make sure that
the gaps between the doors and around the hood and trunk are straight and
even.
Have a mechanic check underneath for evidence of welding of the frame or
unibody.
Check the title to see if the car is an out-of-state vehicle. Severely
damaged cars often move from one state to another.
Look for evidence of flood damage. Check the mat under the trunk for mud or
dirt. Look for watermarks on the inside of the doors and for moisture inside
the trunk and under the seats.