Reading damage reports properly: assessing vehicle condition online
4 min read
When sourcing online, the damage report is your most important tool. How to translate markers, photos and descriptions into a solid calculation.
Why silhouette markers say more than text lists
Damage only becomes calculable when you know where it sits and what it looks like. That is why biet2biet marks every recorded damage as a numbered point directly on the vehicle silhouette — with position, description and photo. "Scratch rear left bumper, 5 cm, clear coat" is a repair item; "various signs of use" is a risk discount. The more precise the documentation, the sharper your calculation — and the higher you can bid with confidence.
From damage picture to repair estimate
Translate every item into your own reconditioning costs:
- Smart repair: small dents, stone chips, polishable defects — low cost, often without paint
- Paintwork: scratches down to the metal, larger areas — estimate per panel
- Part replacement: cracked bumpers, defective attachments — part price plus labour
- Interior: burns, tears, heavy wear — detailing or upholsterer
- Technical notes: warning lights and anomalies always priced with a buffer
Tyres, equipment, COC: the underestimated items
Besides damage, the side items often decide the margin: four tyres at the wear limit quickly cost several hundred euros; a missing COC can delay registration; an overlooked option gives away sales potential. On biet2biet tread depths in millimetres, equipment and COC status are recorded per vehicle — read these items as attentively as the damage picture and your calculation will hold up at resale too.
FAQ
Are unmarked areas automatically damage-free?
The documentation reflects the condition recorded at intake — carefully and to the best of our knowledge. Age-appropriate signs of use below the recording threshold are normal on used vehicles and should be priced in as a general allowance.
What do I do if information is missing?
Ask before placing your bid — not after. Open points can usually be clarified quickly before the auction ends, and you bid on the basis of complete information.
