Buying a used vehicle can seem intimidating; not everyone is a car expert!
There are several things to look for and to be aware of when buying a used car.
The Visual Check
When performing a visual check on any used vehicle, you should always:
Look out for rust or water damage. Be sure to check the underside of the car as well.
Look for offset doors, fenders, or uneven lines that could mean damage to the frame.
Look for cracks and differences in the paint color that could indicate that the vehicle was repainted after an accident.
Look for dents or scratches.
Always speak up about any dents or scratches and try to negotiate a lower price because of them.
If the seller refuses to budge on the price, see if you can have them fix it before you agree to purchase.
The Mechanical Check
When buying any vehicle, you should perform a mechanical check.
Check the fluids first:
Make sure the coolant is clear and that the transmission fluid isn’t black or oily.
Check the oil to make sure it’s not milky or frothy, and that the brake fluid is no darker than the color of tea.
Check underneath the engine to see that it is free from leaking fluids and check the belts for cracks.
You should also be aware of new parts. If you test drive the car, request that the seller drive the car while you travel as a passenger:
Turn off any music, and confirm that there are no strange noises or rattles.
Observe the steering wheel to ensure the alignment is correct.
Research Vehicle History
When buying a used vehicle, it would be very wise to run a vehicle history report.
Request to see the service book as well as any repair invoices and receipts.
Check that the seller’s identity and the registration information match to confirm the vehicle is not stolen.