Damaged front fender – should I buy?

[Jacob Andersen]

I have been offered an Opel/Vauxhall Astra 2006 for a reasonable price.

The car has been in a “minor” collision – hit the trailer hitch of another car with the centre front end during an highly trafficked rush hour braking – with approx. 20 mph.

As of now I have no reason not to believe this story.

The front fender (plastic) was replaced as well as a “part” behind the front fender which I reckon must be the radiator.

I have asked for the receipt for the repair.

Is this a NO GO or should I just be happy to buy an used car with a new radiator?

Other things/signs to be aware of?

Topic

[college man]

if the fender and radiator have been replaced correctly.
I don’t see a problem. before you do buy it. look inside
the the engine bay for any kinks or hammered out metal or
welding.if nothing is out of the ordinary.Then the story
of a minor fender bender is true.

[LJ11194]

Make sure you drive it and listen and feel for anything that shouldn’t be there. If the collision was a little more severe than they claim, there might be audible evidence or vibrations.

[Charles]

If the accident shows up on carfax it reduces the value of the car, all else being equal. This is called diminished value and should be taken in to consideration especially if you may ever want to sell the car to someone else.

[LJ11194]

Carfax is international?

[Jacob Andersen]

I don’t think CarFax is international – I have never of heard of it here before.

I got the receipt today.

Replacement of:

– front fender
– front fender beam
– radiator
– AC radiator with refilling of AC gas

No mention of any body work.

So this should be great?

[college man]

sounds like it was a minor accident that was professionally
repaired. if you still have doubts. take the car to a shop for
a second opinion. If they give the car and repair a clean bill
of health then buy the car.:)

[Jacob Andersen]

Thanks.

[college man]

Good luck with your decision. 😉

[EricTheCarGuy]

I’m always nervous buying cars that have been in a collision. I made this video series just for this occasion.

[Author]

Replies