Dodge Ram 4x4 With Front Frame Rail Damage

I was just about to buy a used truck (2004 Dodge Ram 4x4 Diesel) and
just before we finalized the deal, I found out it was in an accident
(even though the dealer said it was not - even in WRITING). When I
obtained detailed claim information from the insurance company, I found
out it the front left and right rails had been repaired (about 4 hours
of labor total).

Apparently, this truck was involved in an accident in a parking lot and
had around $7,000 in repairs. Looked more like the previous owner
rear-ended someone.

While I know that buying a vehicle with frame repair is usually a
no-no, is there anyway of knowing if the repair was done perfectly - so
it will never develop faults in the drivetrain as a result or so it
will not compromise safety in a future accident? Privacy laws prevent
me from finding out who did the repairs.

Perhaps I should just run away now?

Thanks,
Paula

On 27 Jul 2006 22:50:56 -0700, pokee.DeleteThis@shaw.ca wrote:

>I was just about to buy a used truck (2004 Dodge Ram 4x4 Diesel) and
>just before we finalized the deal, I found out it was in an accident
>(even though the dealer said it was not - even in WRITING). When I
>obtained detailed claim information from the insurance company, I found
>out it the front left and right rails had been repaired (about 4 hours
>of labor total).
>
>Apparently, this truck was involved in an accident in a parking lot and
>had around $7,000 in repairs. Looked more like the previous owner
>rear-ended someone.
>
>While I know that buying a vehicle with frame repair is usually a
>no-no, is there anyway of knowing if the repair was done perfectly - so
>it will never develop faults in the drivetrain as a result or so it
>will not compromise safety in a future accident? Privacy laws prevent
>me from finding out who did the repairs.
>
>Perhaps I should just run away now?
>
>Thanks,
>Paula

Looking for advise? Dont' buy it, keep looking?

If you *must* have it, then I'd recommend having it inspected by a
compentent inspector who knows about the accident and what to look
for. I'd guess (were this me, that is) you should be looking at an
additional $3-4K discount in reduced value.