How To Check A Used Car?
Thursday, September 30th, 2010It seems you have looked at every used car in your area and have finally decided on the one to purchase. Before you put down your money, you need to make sure this little jewel is worth what you are willing to pay and the used car salesman is willing to accept.
Here are a few tips that you can use for an on the spot inspection of the vehicle:
1)Body damage this is a little tricky to determine but you can do some checking. Lit the hood and trunk and inspect the paint edges feeling to see if it is rough. Look for overspray on the inside of these areas and also make sure the paint inside the hood matches the outside of the vehicle. Stand in front of the car at each corner and look down the body line of the vehicle checking for waves. Open the doors and look for overspray or a paint line on the door jams.
2)Engine and transmission lift the hood and look carefully at the engine and do not be duped by a clean compartment. Look at the belts and hoses, the air filter; inspect the oil and transmission fluid by sniffing it. If you smell smoke, that could indicate problems. Start up the car and listen to the engine for knocks and metal noises; put the transmission in gear does it clunk or go smoothly. Look under the vehicle for leaks if you find water don’t worry that’s just the a/c.
3)Electrical start the car and turn on all the electrical features ensuring everything works properly. Windows should roll up smoothly and quickly, door locks should work, the a/c should blow cold, the heater should heat and always check the windshield defroster if it smokes or has a funny smell, the heater core could be bad. Make sure the wipers work properly as well as the horn, turn signals, hazards and headlights.
4)Test Drive and make sure to check all functions of the moving vehicle including the brakes, steering, suspension, engine response and transmission. Before you take off look at the tires and inspect the wear and tread depth. If the tires have scalloping or damage you should get the owner to replace them prior to purchase.
5)After the Test Drive turn off the car, pop the hood checking for temperature issues and smell. Also get back down again and look under the vehicle checking for any residue on any surfaces.
6)Before you purchase take the car to a trusted mechanic and have them go over it as well. Ask for receipts and service or repair invoices as well.
If your potential car purchase lives through all that scrutiny then buy it. If it fails a few tests, you will need to determine the potential costs you might incur and if you really want to buy a vehicle with possible problems.
The bottom line is, it is next to impossible to determine if a vehicle is good or bad, but you can decide whether or not it is worth the risk of buying.
Used Mini Cooper for sale Ireland is offered by Used Ford Ka Cars for sale Ireland
These sites are part of the Cars For Sale Ireland Network