Ask the exporter for a paint thickness gauge report, or request a live video where they measure the car in front of you. What to look for: · Factory paint on most Chinese cars measures 80–120 microns. Readings above 150–200 microns on a panel usually mean repainting; above 300 microns often means body filler (putty) underneath. · Inconsistent readings between panels (e.g., left door 95µm, right door 180µm) suggest the right side was repaired. · Check gaps between panels (doors, hood, trunk). Uneven gaps or misaligned headlights/bumper clips point to past collision repairs. · Look for overspray on rubber seals, plastic trim, or inside door jambs — a clear sign of repainting. · Check bolt heads on fenders, doors, and hood. Wrench marks or fresh paint over bolts mean the panel was removed. Combine these checks with an OBD scan for airbag or crash-related fault codes. Any repainting should be declared by the seller; if discovered undeclared, you have grounds to renegotiate or reject the car.

A proper inspection relies on equipment, not just eyes. The inspector should use a paint thickness gauge to measure 50-60 points across body panels; original paint is typically 80-150 microns. An OBD diagnostic scanner reads stored and pending fault codes across all control units, and for EVs it also reads battery state of health and charge cycle counts. The car must go on a lift for the underbody check: frame rails, suspension components, oil leaks and accident repair marks are only visible from below. A battery tester checks starting voltage and charging system health, and a tread depth gauge documents tire condition. Ask for the report to include raw readings and dated photos rather than a simple pass/fail summary - that is what makes it verifiable.

A Chinese history report (查博士, 精真估, or 4S-shop records) usually contains several sections. Here's how to read them. Accident records: entries tagged 重大事故 (major accident) or listings at an insurance payout above 30% of the car's value are serious red flags. Airbag deployment is a deal-breaker for most buyers. Mileage timeline: check that mileage increases logically between service visits. A sudden drop between two dates means odometer tampering—walk away. Ownership count: more than 3 owners in 5 years suggests a problem car. Also check the 使用性质 field: a car registered as 营运 (commercial/taxi use) has a much shorter legal lifespan. Maintenance entries: consistent 4S dealership records are a good sign; long gaps aren't necessarily fatal if the owner used independent shops, but ask for receipts. Cross-check the report against the VIN plate, registration certificate, and physical inspection. If the report shows no accidents but paint thickness readings say otherwise, trust the metal, not the paper.