From Family Handyman · Alex Shoemaker · · 1m
Magnet Test Reveals Used Car Repairs
A magnet test spots body filler on used cars but has limits.
In brief
A magnet test spots body filler on used cars but has limits. Bringing a magnet to a used car can reveal past repairs but doesn't guarantee safety. Originally reported by Family Handyman.
Magnet Test for Used Cars
Bringing a magnet when buying a used car can reveal signs of body filler and past repairs.
How the Magnet Test Works
Place a magnet on steel sections to check for weak pull indicating body filler or past repairs.
Magnet Test Limitations
Magnet won’t stick to aluminum, fiberglass, or plastic parts, and may miss some repairs.
3M Bondo Body Filler
Bondo® Body Filler shapes in minutes and fills holes and dents for steel panels.
“Bondo® Body Filler shapes in minutes and will accept as many reasonably applied applications as required to fill holes and deep scratches or dents”
FTC Recommendations
The U.S. Federal Trade Commission advises getting a mechanic’s inspection before buying a used car.
“That’s why it’s always a good idea to pay for an independent mechanic to conduct a mechanical inspection of a used car”
Why the Test Fails
A magnet test can’t show repair quality or mechanical condition, only potential areas needing attention.
What matters most
Bringing a magnet to a used car can reveal past repairs but doesn't guarantee safety.
