--- url: "https://cheapvhr.com/blog/how-much-does-an-accident-on-carfax-affect-resale-value-percentage" title: "How Much Does an Accident on Carfax Affect Resale Value Percentage" --- [Back to Blog](https://cheapvhr.com/blog) ![How Much Does an Accident on Carfax Affect Resale Value Percentage](https://i.postimg.cc/CKVLmN54/Chat-GPT-Image-Feb-25-2026-10-37-25-PM.png) **Category**: cheap carfax # How Much Does an Accident on Carfax Affect Resale Value Percentage **Written By**: CheapVHR Team **Published on**: Wed Feb 25 2026 0 min min read The resale value depends on the condition after an accident. The Carfax report will only show that the car has been reported to the insurance company for an accident. Although a minor accident can, of course, hurt a vehicle's resale value in dealership markets. In this article, we will understand how much an accident affect resale value of a vehicle. Let's find out. ## How an Accident Affects Vehicle Resale Value When a car is involved in an accident, its resale value can take a hit, even after repairs. The main reason is that many buyers are wary of cars with accident histories, especially when purchasing a used vehicle. While some buyers may not mind a minor fender bender, others may be hesitant to purchase a car that has been involved in a major accident. A car's history of accidents suggests a higher likelihood of mechanical issues or poor repairs, which can reduce its overall value. This is where Carfax comes into play. It helps buyers understand the car's history, including any accidents that were reported to the [insurance company](https://cheapvhr.com/blog/how-car-accident-history-affects-insurance-rates). Cars with no accidents typically sell for higher prices than those with a history of repairs or accidents, as buyers tend to pay a premium for peace of mind. ## Carfax Report: Does It Show All Types of Accidents? A [Carfax vehicle history report](https://cheapvhr.com/) shows accidents, hail damage, title changes, and mileage, but it does not list all types of accidents. Therefore, you should be aware of the [hidden wear and mileage fraud. ](https://cheapvhr.com/blog/hidden-wear-and-mileage-fraud) For example, if a car was involved in a small accident but wasn't reported to the insurance company, Carfax may not have any record of it. On the other hand, if the accident was more serious and led to major repairs, it will likely show up on Carfax, and you can expect a corresponding drop in resale value. ## The Percentage Impact on Resale Value in the American Market The American car market is quite huge, and accidents can certainly impact your vehicle's value. Not only in the USA, but the resale value will be affected worldwide. On average, a car's resale value can drop by 20 to 30 percent after a major accident, and this figure can vary depending on the severity of the crash and the extent of the damage. However, if the car has minor scratches or some dents, it may only reduce the value by around 10 percent. Buyers typically expect lower prices for cars with accident histories and are less likely to pay top dollar for them. So, if you're selling a car with an accident history, be prepared for lower offers from potential buyers. ## Minor vs. Major Accidents: Different Impacts on Resale Value Not all accidents are created equal when it comes to resale value. Minor accidents or [moderate damage](https://cheapvhr.com/blog/moderate-damage-on-carfax), such as small fender-benders, typically have a smaller impact on a car's resale value compared to major accidents. The key factor here is the extent of the damage and how well the car was repaired. - [ ] **Minor Accidents**: These include small dings, bumper scrapes, and other minor body repairs. While these can still affect a car's value, the impact is usually less severe. Buyers may be willing to overlook a minor accident if the repairs were done professionally and the car is still in good condition overall. - [ ] **Major Accidents:** These involve significant damage, such as frame damage, airbag deployment, or engine issues. Cars that have experienced major accidents are typically worth far less, as buyers are often wary of purchasing vehicles that may have hidden structural or mechanical issues. The resale value of these cars can drop drastically, sometimes by as much as 30 percent. ## Tips for Sellers to Minimize Value Loss Due to Accidents If your car has been in an accident, there are a few steps you can take to minimize the impact on its resale value: - [ ] **Provide Documentation of Repairs**: If your car was involved in an accident and underwent repairs, ensure you provide potential buyers with documentation of those repairs. This can help reassure buyers that the car was properly repaired and is in good condition. - [ ] **Maintain the Car's Condition**: A well-maintained car will always fetch a higher resale price, even after an accident. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections, shows buyers that the car has been cared for, which can help reduce the impact of any prior accidents. - [ ] **Get a Professional Inspection:** Consider getting a pre-sale inspection from a certified mechanic. This can help identify potential issues caused by the accident and give buyers confidence in the car's condition. - [ ] **Be Honest About the Car's History:** Transparency is key when selling a car with an accident history. Being upfront about the car's past will build trust with potential buyers, and they'll appreciate your honesty. ## Conclusion Accidents do affect the value of your car; it depends on the condition as well. With our Carfax reports, you can find out whether the car has been through accidents and several other types of damage. You must have a professional mechanic inspect the car for any hidden damage. Remember, Carfax is just one piece of the puzzle. If you’re a seller, it’s important to understand how accidents affect resale prices and take steps to protect your car’s value. Buyers, on the other hand, should always do their research and use resources like Carfax to make informed decisions when purchasing a used vehicle. ## Tags carfax ## Related Articles - [Affordable Carfax Reports: Instant VIN Checks & Trusted Vehicle History for Less](https://cheapvhr.com/blog/affordable-carfax-reports-instant-vin) - [Does Hail Damage Show Up on CARFAX?](https://cheapvhr.com/blog/hail-damage-carfax) - [What Does Engine Serviced Mean on Carfax | All Details Revealed](https://cheapvhr.com/blog/what-does-engine-serviced-mean-on-carfax-all-details-revealed) - [How to Interpret the Details in a Carfax Report for Used Car Buying?](https://cheapvhr.com/blog/how-to-interpret-the-details-in-a-carfax-report-for-used-car-buying) - [Carfax Trade-In Value: What's the Worth of Your Car?](https://cheapvhr.com/blog/carfax-trade-in-value) reCAPTCHA Recaptcha requires verification. 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