Why panel gaps matter when buying a car — more than looks
Panel gaps explained: quality, safety and hidden accident signs
Why panel gaps matter when buying a car — more than looks
Panel gaps are more than cosmetic. Learn how uneven body gaps reveal build quality, accident history, and why they matter when choosing a car in 2025.
2025-08-18T09:04:12+03:00
2025-08-18T09:04:12+03:00
2025-08-18T09:04:12+03:00
Panel gaps may seem like a minor detail, but they speak volumes about a car’s quality. Clean, uniform spacing ensures doors seal properly, water stays out, and first impressions remain positive. Uneven lines, on the other hand, can instantly suggest careless assembly or poor repair.
Automakers know this well. Lexus famously highlighted flawless panel alignment in its 1990s ads, while Bob Lutz pushed GM to tighten its standards by comparing its cars directly to rivals. And when Doug DeMuro’s viral video showed a tube of toothpaste fitting into a Maserati Ghibli’s door panel gap, it left a lasting impression that arguably hurt sales.
For used-car buyers, panel gaps are an invaluable clue. They often reveal accident damage that sellers may not disclose. Regulations vary wildly by region, and many cars with questionable repairs still make it to online listings. From my perspective, paying attention to panel fit is as essential as checking service history — it’s a fast way to separate well-kept vehicles from those hiding problems.
Even Tesla, often criticized for inconsistent fit, has worked to improve. Because in the long run, no brand can rely on novelty alone; quality and craftsmanship matter.
panel gaps cars,used car inspection,car build quality,panel alignment,car accident signs,buying used car tips 2025,Tesla panel gaps,Maserati Ghibli quality
2025
Michael Powers
articles
Panel gaps explained: quality, safety and hidden accident signs
Panel gaps are more than cosmetic. Learn how uneven body gaps reveal build quality, accident history, and why they matter when choosing a car in 2025.
Michael Powers, Editor
Panel gaps may seem like a minor detail, but they speak volumes about a car’s quality. Clean, uniform spacing ensures doors seal properly, water stays out, and first impressions remain positive. Uneven lines, on the other hand, can instantly suggest careless assembly or poor repair.
Automakers know this well. Lexus famously highlighted flawless panel alignment in its 1990s ads, while Bob Lutz pushed GM to tighten its standards by comparing its cars directly to rivals. And when Doug DeMuro’s viral video showed a tube of toothpaste fitting into a Maserati Ghibli’s door panel gap, it left a lasting impression that arguably hurt sales.
For used-car buyers, panel gaps are an invaluable clue. They often reveal accident damage that sellers may not disclose. Regulations vary wildly by region, and many cars with questionable repairs still make it to online listings. From my perspective, paying attention to panel fit is as essential as checking service history — it’s a fast way to separate well-kept vehicles from those hiding problems.
Even Tesla, often criticized for inconsistent fit, has worked to improve. Because in the long run, no brand can rely on novelty alone; quality and craftsmanship matter.
