How to Read a Korean Used Car Inspection Report

A Korean used car inspection report includes vital information such as engine condition, transmission performance, frame damage, mileage verification, and accident history. It’s an official document that helps international buyers assess the vehicle’s reliability and safety before purchasing.

UsedCarKorea.com

When buying a used car from Korea, understanding the Korean used car inspection report is essential. This official document provides a detailed overview of the car’s mechanical condition, mileage, accident history, and more. For international buyers, decoding this report can help avoid surprises and ensure a safe and reliable purchase.

What Is a Korean Used Car Inspection Report?

A Korean used car inspection report, officially known as a Performance Inspection Certificate (성능점검기록부), is a required document for all used cars sold by licensed dealerships in Korea. It outlines the condition of various components of the car and is used to ensure transparency and trust, especially for international buyers who cannot inspect the vehicle in person.

Why Is It Important?

Understanding this report helps international buyers:

• Confirm if the car has been in an accident
• Check for mechanical or transmission issues
• Verify mileage authenticity
• Detect flood damage or frame repair
• Estimate future maintenance or resale value

Key Sections of the Report

Here’s how to understand the main sections of the inspection report:

1. Vehicle Information (차량 정보)

This section includes:

• Make and model
• Engine type and fuel
• Year and registration date
• VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
• Color and transmission type

It confirms that the car details match what’s being advertised or exported.

2. Odometer Reading (주행거리)

Indicates the car’s mileage in kilometers. It’s crucial to compare this with the car’s age to determine if the mileage is realistic. Unusually low mileage on an older car could signal odometer tampering.

3. Accident History (사고이력)

This part shows whether the vehicle has a record of:

• No accidents (무사고)
• Minor damage (단순 수리)
• Frame damage (골격손상 or 사고차)

Frame-damaged cars may have long-term structural issues and are often not recommended for import.

4. Structural Frame Condition (골격 부위 점검)

Checks if any part of the car’s frame has been repaired, replaced, or welded. The areas inspected include:

• Side members
• Pillars
• Floor panels
• Front and rear panels
• Roof panel

Each part will be marked as:

• 양호: Good
• 변형: Deformed
• 교환: Replaced
• 용접: Welded

5. Mechanical Condition (엔진 및 주요 장치)

This section details the functionality of:

• Engine
• Transmission
• Suspension
• Steering
• Braking system

If anything is labeled “이상 있음” (Abnormality found), it means further inspection or repair may be needed.

6. Electrical and Safety Features (전자 및 안전 장치)

Covers items such as:

• Airbags
• ABS brakes
• Power windows and locks
• Rear-view camera
• Navigation system

Each item is marked as either functioning normally or having an issue.

7. Water Damage Check (침수 여부)

States whether the car has suffered flood damage. A car marked “침수차 아님” (Not a flood-damaged vehicle) is safe. If flood history is present, it may be disqualified from export or resale in some countries.

8. Inspection Date and Certification

Always check the inspection date. Reports are valid for 30 days from the inspection date. Also, look for the inspector’s name and certification number to ensure it’s an official document.

Sample Translation Table

Korean Term	English Translation	Meaning / Action
무사고	No accident	Safe to buy
골격손상	Frame damage	Avoid if possible
이상 없음	No abnormality	Component is normal
이상 있음	Abnormality found	Needs inspection/repair
침수차 아님	No flood damage	Safe
주행거리 조작	Mileage tampered	Do not buy

How to Request the Report from a Seller

Ask the seller or dealer for the following:

“성능점검기록부를 영어로 받을 수 있나요?”
(“Can I receive the inspection report in English?”)

Most professional exporters will provide an English version or explain the main points for you.

Final Tips for International Buyers

• Use reputable platforms or licensed Korean exporters
• Always request the full inspection report
• Compare the report with actual vehicle photos
• Avoid cars with flood or frame damage history
• If in doubt, ask for a third-party translation or interpretation

FAQs