How to Check if a Car Has Been in an Accident (UK Edition)

In the UK, accident damage isn't always obvious. A shiny exterior could be hiding a dodgy repair job. And if you end up with a car that’s been badly damaged and patched up just to sell, you could be in for big bills and safety risks.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know to spot a crash-damaged car before it drains your wallet.

Why Accident Damage Matters

Accident history affects more than just looks. It impacts:

• Safety: Structural damage can make a car less crash-worthy

• Value: Cars with accident history are worth less

• Insurance: You may pay more or struggle to get coverage

• Reliability: Poor repairs can lead to ongoing problems

So yeah, it matters. A lot. Let’s look at how to protect yourself.

1. Do a Vehicle History Check First

Before anything else, run a proper car history check. It’s fast, cheap, and gives you peace of mind.

With TopCarCheck, you get details like:

• Insurance write-off status (Cat S, Cat N, etc.)

• Accident records (if reported through insurance)

• MOT history (great for spotting patterns post-accident)

• Mileage anomalies (clocking often follows damage)

If the car's been written off or flagged for accident damage, this is where you’ll find out.

Top tip: If the seller refuses to share the reg number, walk away.

2. Understand Write-Off Categories

The UK uses categories to classify how bad an accident was:

• Category A: Scrap only, cannot return to the road

• Category B: For parts only, not roadworthy

• Category S: Structural damage but repairable

• Category N: Non-structural damage (cosmetic or electrical)

If you’re buying a Cat S or Cat N car, make sure repairs were done professionally. Ask for receipts and reports.

3. Look for Signs of Repair Work

Even if a car isn’t written off, it might’ve had a bump. Some sellers try to cover it up. Here’s what to look for:

Paintwork

• Mismatched paint shades

• Overspray on rubber trims or lights

• Paint lines around door edges or panels

Panels

• Gaps between body panels that don’t line up

• Doors or bonnet that don’t close smoothly

• Dents or ripples that don’t look factory-made

Glass and Lights

• Non-OEM glass (check logos)

• New headlights on one side only

If anything looks freshly replaced on one side, that might be where it took a hit.

4. Inspect the Underbody and Engine Bay

Grab a torch and have a peek underneath. Accident repairs can often be spotted where casual buyers never look.

Look for:

• Welds or new metal that looks different to the rest

• Damaged or replaced crumple zones

• Bent or poorly repaired suspension components

• Fresh underseal covering potential damage

Pop the bonnet too. Check:

• If the inner wings or engine bay paintwork matches the outside

• For signs of straightening or patchwork repair

5. Test Drive the Right Way

Always go for a drive. Listen and feel.

Watch for:

• Unusual pulling to one side

• Vibration through the steering wheel

• Noises from the suspension over bumps

• Poor alignment of the steering wheel

Even subtle things can point to frame misalignment or repairs.

6. Ask the Seller Straight Up

It sounds simple, but ask directly: "Has this car ever been in an accident or had bodywork repairs?"

A genuine seller should have no issue telling you the truth. If they dodge the question, get vague or defensive, that’s a red flag.

You can also ask to see the V5C logbook. If it's recently been updated, that could be due to a write-off.

7. Get a Pro Inspection

Still not sure? Get a mechanic or inspection service to give it a once-over.

Mobile vehicle inspection services in the UK can check for hidden accident damage and give you a report within hours.

This is a must if you’re buying privately or spending more than a few grand.

8. Check the MOT History

You can see MOT history for free on gov.uk. Use this to look for signs of damage-related repairs:

• Sudden failures or advisory notes for structural or suspension issues

• Sharp drops in mileage

• Big repairs clustered around a certain year (might indicate post-accident)

Pair this with your vehicle history check for the full picture.

9. Beware of "Too Good to Be True" Deals

Is the car priced way below market value? Especially if it’s newer or low mileage?

That could mean:

• It’s a write-off

• It’s been in a crash

• Something’s being hidden

Use TopCarCheck to check market valuations and compare against what you’re being offered.

10. Know When to Walk Away

Sometimes, the best decision is not to buy. If something feels off, the seller is sketchy, or the car's history is murky, move on.

There are thousands of used cars out there. Don’t settle for one that might cause you months of grief.

Bonus Tip: Don’t Skip the History Check

We get it - it feels like just another step. But for a few quid, a full car check could save you from buying a bent, dodgy, or unsafe motor.

TopCarCheck gives you:

• Accident & insurance write-off data

• MOT history

• Mileage validation

• Outstanding finance check

• Stolen vehicle alerts

• Ownership records

• Number plate & VIN checks

It’s fast, simple and 100% worth it.

The Final Word: Stay Sharp, Buy Smart

Buying a used car in the UK doesn’t have to be risky. You just need to know where to look - and what to look for.

A bit of detective work upfront can save you thousands and protect you from buying someone else’s problem.

Ready to check if that car’s been in a crash?

Start your TopCarCheck now and get the full story before you buy.