How to Check for a Car’s Accident History

Author: Nikhil Ramchandani •Published on: 2/4/2026•5 Minutes
Overview:When buying a used car, checking the accident history of a vehicle is a very crucial step to avoid being misled & save future expenses. But it is not an easy task. The market is filled with repaired pre-owned vehicles for sale without the buyer being informed. No one will buy a damaged car, but accident-related damages, especially those affecting the vehicle's structure, can seriously affect the vehicle's safety and performance. That's why knowing a vehicle's history is important, and there are various methods to uncover the vehicle's records. With safety, resale value, and peace of mind on the line, here’s how to effectively uncover a vehicle’s full accident history and make a truly informed decision.
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Key Highlights:


  • Verify from Multiple Sources – Cross-check insurance, service records, and online history reports for accuracy.
  • Trust a Mechanic's Inspection – A physical check can reveal hidden structural or repair issues.
  • Watch for Seller Tricks – Sellers may hide damage with repainting or part replacements, so stay cautious.



Get Vehicle Details


To check the history of a vehicle, its registration number and VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) must be known. The VIN is typically found in several locations on a car, such as near the windshield on the driver's side, on a plate/sticker on the driver's side doorjamb, and sometimes underneath the bonnet near the engine. It's also printed on the vehicle's registration certificate and insurance policy.


Consult the Insurance Company


Insurance companies have detailed claim records made against a vehicle. So, if the car is insured, you can consult the insurance company to provide details about any claims made in past.


Note: If the repairs were carried out without filing a claim, those records won't be found in the claim history.


Check at Authorised Service Centres


Authorised service centres also maintain service & repair records of a vehicle. You can ask them about the vehicle's service history and check for any unusual repairs or accidental fixes, such as body, chassis, or suspension repairs. Check for multiple replacements of airbags, bumpers or windshields.


Use Online Vehicle History Check Platforms


Several online platforms, such as Droom, CARS24, and CarInfo, provide comprehensive vehicle history reports, including accident records, insurance claims made and odometer tampering & flooding incidents. However, they charge a premium for these services.


Physical Inspection by a Trusted Mechanic


A physical inspection can be the most reliable way to check if the vehicle has had any major accidents. Having said that, check the car thoroughly or hire a trusted mechanic to:

  • Check the paint job consistency and look for mismatched areas
  • Examine panel gaps for uniformity
  • Inspect the underbody for damage or repairs
  • Look for airbag deployments or replaced parts
  • Review structural integrity and glass condition
  • Weld marks or uneven chassis repairs
  • Rust or corrosion in unusual places

Check for any Police FIR


If a vehicle was involved in a major accident, with significant property damage or injuries to any person, a FIR is typically filed with the local police. Buyers can request details of any FIR related to the vehicle through online police portals, where available.


Common Methods Used by Sellers to Hide Accident History


Since there is no legal mandate for sellers to share accident history with potential buyers, dealers commonly follow some practices designed to prevent you from understanding the vehicle's actual condition. These include:


  • Tampering with on-board diagnostics (OBD) to hide ECU errors and disabling warning lights.
  • Replacing damaged parts with local, non-authorised components.
  • Repainting the entire panel or car to hide any mismatched shades.
  • Taking advantage of the buyer's less technical knowledge to hide past damage.

All these tactics are used to get the highest resale value for the vehicle.


Final Tips for Buyers


  • Always cross-check information from at least two different sources—for example, insurance history + physical inspection.
  • Don’t skip the test drive. Listen for unusual noises or if the vehicle is pulling to one side.
  • If possible, get a written statement from the seller about the vehicle’s accident history.
  • Pay attention to airbag indicators and other warning lights.

Why it All Pays Off


Checking a vehicle's history is worth the effort. It requires a diverse combination of digital tools, physical inspection and service & insurance records; all to make a wise decision. By following these steps, you can reduce the risk of buying a vehicle with hidden damages and financial losses. A well-repaired minor accidental vehicle isn't always a bad deal. What matters is honesty, repair quality and the resale price.


FAQs


1. Is there any government portal to check a vehicle's accident history?
No, there's no government portal to check a vehicle's accident history. However, there are several private platforms like CARS24 and Droom, which can provide such details.


2. What information is needed to check accident history online?
The vehicle's registration number and VIN are required to retrieve a vehicle's past records.


3. How can I check a vehicle's insurance claim history?
You can ask the seller to request a claim history from the vehicle's insurance company, or you can use the IIB portal with the registration number.


4. Can I check a vehicle's accident history on the VAHAN portal?
No, the VAHAN portal does not show a vehicle's accident history. However, you can verify the registration, insurance and fitness details.


5. What are the signs that a car might have been in a major accident?
Check for uneven gaps between panels, different paint shades, non-factory welds, warning light issues and unusual noise while driving.