Expert: Kevin Pilotte - 8/22/2005

Question
I was looking for a car and I found one that runs good and everything at a really great price, but I later found out that it has some undercarriage damage. What's that? and how did that happen? is it usually from accidents? And is it easily fixed? And what would be a good price to buy it for with the problems that it has? It is a Pontiac Grand Prix 96' 120,000 miles.
thank you so much for your time and help,
~Maria

Answer
The term "under carriage damage" can mean anything from a scratch under the bottom of the car to a bent frame. Without an inspection by a qualified body technician, it is difficult to say to what extent the vehicle's under carriage is damaged. Undercarriage is the bottom of the car, the frame, the foundation on which the rest of the vehicle sits. It can be damaged from an accident. It sometimes can be repaired, if done by an experienced body shop. If it is not repaired correctly, it can result in premature tire wear, poor handling quality, and it can even be dangerous if you have another accident. Before buying this vehicle, take it to a qualified body shop and ask them to inspect the vehicle for frame damage. It might cost you a few dollars (< $20), but it would be well worth it in the long run. If the seller refuses to allow you to do this, don't walk away...RUN...DO NOT BUY THIS VEHICLE without having a body shop inspect it. Do not go to a body shop the seller recommends to you, find one through word of mouth or go to a new car dealer's body shop. Good luck.