CAADE Vehicle Damage Identification 3

Question 1

Which measuring reference point is commonly used to identify sidesway damage on a unibody vehicle?

Accepted Answer

Vehicle centerline

Answer

The vehicle centerline is used as a reference to detect sidesway, as the front or rear of the vehicle shifts laterally from the center axis.

Question 2

A vehicle brought in for appraisal has a radiator support that is pushed rearward but undamaged side rails. This pattern suggests:

Accepted Answer

Isolated impact to the radiator support only

Answer

When the radiator support is damaged but the side rails are intact, the impact was concentrated at the support, not spread across the full front structure.

Question 3

Which type of damage is characterized by metal being compressed and shortened along the axis of impact?

Accepted Answer

Mash damage

Answer

Mash damage involves the compression and shortening of vehicle sections along the length of the vehicle due to direct impact forces.

Question 4

When inspecting a vehicle for prior repair, paint film thickness readings that exceed OEM specifications most likely indicate:

Accepted Answer

A previous collision repair with additional paint layers

Answer

Excessive paint film thickness compared to OEM specs typically means additional layers of paint were applied during a prior repair.

Question 5

A strut tower that is pushed inward toward the engine bay is most likely the result of:

Accepted Answer

A high-speed frontal impact

Answer

In a high-speed frontal collision, energy transfers through the front structure and can push strut towers inward into the engine compartment.

(CAADE) Certified Automotive Appraisal and Damage Estimator Practice Test

(CAADE) Certified Automotive Appraisal and Damage Estimator Practice Test

CAADE Vehicle Damage Identification 3