Is It Genuine or Shower? Spotting Repainted Cars in Pakistan’s Used Car Market

Buying a used car in Pakistan can be tricky, especially if you’re trying to figure out whether the vehicle has undergone major bodywork or a fresh paint job. While a new coat of paint isn’t always a bad thing, it can sometimes hide accidents or rust damage. In the local market—where mechanics (often referred to as “ustads”) and car dealers can be crafty—it’s important to know how to spot signs of repainting. Here are some methods to help you check for hidden work.

Look for Mismatched Shades

One of the easiest ways to catch a repainted car is by looking for slight differences in color between panels. Stand back and examine the doors, fenders, and bonnet from different angles. If the shades seem off under bright sunlight or if any panel looks glossier than the rest, it might be a sign of fresh paint. Mechanics often use terms like “body shower” for an overall paint job, so ask if the seller mentions anything like that.

Check Under Rubbers and Seals

Lift the rubber beading around doors, windows, and the trunk. If you spot paint lines or rough edges beneath these seals, it indicates the painter didn’t remove them before spraying. In a proper factory finish, the color transition is smooth and consistent. A rushed paint job often leaves overspray in hidden corners or thick edges near rubber seals.

Inspect for Overspray on Plastic Parts

Look closely at headlights, taillights, and plastic trims, because overspray is a common giveaway. If you see paint specks on these parts, it’s a strong sign that some panels have been repainted outside a proper paint booth. Good denter-painters usually remove or mask these parts, but many quick jobs done in smaller “ustaad” workshops skip these steps.

Tap or Scratch Test

Gently tap panels to sense any uneven surface. A thick paint layer can sound duller than a factory finish. Lightly running a fingernail along edges can also help detect rough transitions or ridges from poor masking. Just be careful not to damage the paint—your goal is to feel for irregularities, not scrape off color.

Always ask for maintenance records or receipts from the denting and painting services, and consider bringing along a trusted expert or a friend with experience for a second opinion. By combining a keen eye with these simple yet effective checks, you can confidently navigate Pakistan’s used car market. Additionally, you can use a car paint tester pen to check the paint thickness and uncover any hidden damages, ensuring the car’s true condition before making a purchase.