How to Spot a Repainted Car in Pakistan’s Used Car Market

Wajahat

08 Apr 2025

185

How to Spot a Repainted Car in Pakistan’s Used Car Market

When stepping into the world of second-hand vehicles, one question always comes up: “Has this car been repainted or repaired?” In Pakistan, where the market is full of skilled but crafty ustads and dealers, knowing how to identify repainted vehicles can protect you from hidden damage.

Visual Inconsistency: Compare Paint Across Panels

Step back and observe the car under sunlight. Look for panels—such as doors, bumpers, or the hood—that seem shinier or slightly different in tone. Inconsistent paint shade is a strong clue that certain areas have been repainted, often to hide prior damage or rust.

Check Edges and Rubber Linings for Paint Residue

Lift rubber seals around windows, doors, and the trunk. If you spot uneven lines, thick edges, or paint trapped under these areas, it indicates the car was sprayed without proper preparation. Factory-finished paint doesn't leave marks in these hidden zones.

Look for Overspray on Plastic and Glass Components

Inspect headlights, taillights, side mirrors, and trim. Repaint jobs done without care often leave behind tiny paint specks (overspray) on these non-metal parts. Overspray is a major sign of a hasty or low-cost repaint.

Use Tap and Feel Methods for Irregular Surfaces

Tap on different body panels with your knuckles. Areas that sound dull or feel uneven could contain body filler under the paint. Running your finger gently along panel edges can also help detect inconsistent layers or poor masking.

Ask for Proof: Service Records and Paint Receipts

Always request maintenance logs or receipts showing any repainting. If possible, bring a reliable mechanic or car expert along for a second opinion before finalizing the deal.

Quick Reference Table: Signs of a Repainted Car

Area to Inspect	What to Look For	What It Means
Paint Shade	Color mismatch between panels	Possible partial repaint
Rubber Seals	Paint marks under seals/beadings	Sprayed without proper preparation
Plastic & Glass Parts	Specks or overspray on non-metal components	Poor masking or no removal during paint
Sound & Texture	Dull tapping sound or uneven texture	Body filler or thick paint layers
Maintenance Documents	Receipts of denter/painter work	Transparency on vehicle’s repair history

Popular Brands Frequently Repainted in Local Markets

These popular makes are often repainted either for resale value or after accidents.

Helpful Tip for Buyers

Bring a portable paint thickness gauge—readily available online—to measure the paint depth on various parts. This tool can quickly highlight inconsistencies that the eye can miss.

Don’t Be Fooled by the Shine—Inspect Before You Invest

Shiny paint can be deceiving. Always look beneath the surface before buying a used car. With careful inspection and a few simple tricks, you can avoid costly surprises and drive away with confidence.

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