CAADE - Certified Automotive Appraisal and Damage Estimator Vehicle Damage Identification Questions and Answers

Question 1

An appraiser is inspecting a vehicle that was involved in a side-impact collision.
The vehicle is visibly leaning to one side, and the doors on the impacted side do not align properly.
Which type of frame damage is MOST likely present?

Accepted Answer

Sway damage

Answer

Mash damage

Answer

Twist damage

Answer

Cosmetic damage

Question 2

During a post-repair inspection, an appraiser notes that a vehicle's original 5-year-old tires, which had 60% of their tread remaining, were replaced with new tires as part of the collision repair. The insurance estimate includes a charge to the policyholder for a portion of the cost of the new tires. What is this charge called?

Accepted Answer

Betterment

Answer

A deductible adjustment

Answer

A pro-rata charge

Answer

An appearance allowance

Question 3

Which of the following is the MOST reliable initial indicator of potential flood damage when inspecting a recently detailed older vehicle?

Accepted Answer

Brand new, mismatched carpeting

Answer

A strong air freshener scent

Answer

Minor surface rust on undercarriage components

Answer

A clean engine compartment

Question 4

An appraiser is examining a vehicle after a severe front-end collision. The front frame rails are compressed and have a crumpled appearance. This type of structural damage is best described as:

Accepted Answer

Mash damage

Answer

Sway damage

Answer

Twist damage

Answer

Sag damage

Question 5

When inspecting a unibody vehicle for structural damage, where are stress cracks from a collision most likely to first appear?

Accepted Answer

Around suspension mounting points and strut towers

Answer

In the center of the floor pan

Answer

On the roof panel near the sunroof

Answer

On the exterior door skins

Question 6

An appraiser is writing an estimate for a vehicle with damage to the front bumper, grille, and one headlight. The damage to the cooling fan, which is located behind the radiator, is discovered later by the repair technician. This damage to the cooling fan is classified as:

Accepted Answer

Indirect damage

Answer

Direct damage

Answer

Betterment

Answer

Unrelated prior damage