How to Tell if a Car Has Had a Respray

Buying a used car can be a great way to save money, but it comes with its own set of challenges. One such challenge is determining whether the car has been resprayed or repainted. A respray could indicate that the car may have been in an accident or had some other damage repaired. Below are some tips to help you identify if a car has had a respray.

1. Inspect the Paint Quality

The quality of the paint can be a telling sign. Factory paint jobs are usually smooth and even, while resprays might exhibit some imperfections. Look for:

• Uneven texture or orange peel effect (wave-like patterns)
• Paint runs or drips
• Obvious transitions or changes in paint color shades

2. Check for Masking Lines

During a respray, areas that aren't meant to be painted are usually masked off. This can sometimes leave noticeable lines or edges where the masking tape was applied. Look around window seals, door handles, and under trim pieces for any masking lines.

3. Examine Panels and Joints

If a car has been resprayed, there might be minute differences in the paint on adjacent panels. Open doors, trunk, and hood to inspect the edges of the panels. Look for paint overspray or rough edges where the paint job ends.

4. Look Under the Hood and Trunk

Factory paint jobs usually cover areas that you don’t see immediately, like the inside of the hood and trunk. If these areas are of a different color than the exterior, it could indicate a respray. Alternatively, if these areas have overspray, it’s a clear sign of a respray.

5. Inspect the Hardware and Seals

Check the rubber seals around windows, doors, and other openings. During a respray, these seals need to be masked off or removed and replaced. Look for paint on the seals and rubber parts - a sign that they were left in place during a respray.

6. Feel the Paint

Run your hand over different sections of the car. Factory paint jobs are typically smooth and uniform to the touch. Areas that feel rough or inconsistent may indicate that a respray was done.

7. Use a Paint Thickness Gauge

If you're still unsure, consider using a paint thickness gauge. This tool measures the thickness of the paint; factory paint jobs usually have consistent thickness, while resprayed areas may be thicker or uneven.

8. Check Vehicle History Reports

Sometimes, the easiest way to determine if a car has had a respray is to look at its history. Vehicle history reports or records might show past accidents or repairs that led to a respray.

Conclusion

While a respray isn’t always a dealbreaker, knowing about it can give you better insight into the car's history and condition. Use these tips to help identify whether a car has had a respray, and always consider having a professional inspection for additional peace of mind.