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

Sway damage occurs when the frame is shifted to one side, often as a result of a side-impact or T-bone collision. This misalignment can cause the vehicle to pull to one side and lead to visible issues with body panel and door alignment.

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

Betterment refers to the principle that insurance should restore a vehicle to its pre-accident condition, not improve it. When a worn part (like a tire) is replaced with a new one, the vehicle's value is technically increased. The betterment charge requires the owner to pay for this increase in value.

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

While other signs can be suspicious, brand new carpeting in an older vehicle is a significant red flag. It often indicates an attempt to cover up more severe issues like water damage, staining, or mold that resulted from a flood.

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

Mash damage, typically caused by a head-on collision, involves the compression of the frame, giving it a shorter and crumpled appearance.

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

Suspension mounting points and strut towers are critical high-stress areas on a unibody vehicle. Collision forces are often transferred through the suspension to these points, making them primary locations for stress cracks, deformation, and other evidence of structural damage.

(CAADE) Certified Automotive Appraisal and Damage Estimator Practice Test

(CAADE) Certified Automotive Appraisal and Damage Estimator Practice Test

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