It is important that you inspect a used car before you actually purchase it. You see, when you do like a car because of the facts and information given while it was advertised may not be actually true. Some people who sell their vehicles would often create information about the vehicle even if they are not even actually found on the vehicle itself. So it important that you go through the vehicle and check it out first.
Look at the car's exterior first. If you notice that the paint is still new, ask when the car was painted. You see, some people when they sell cars actually paint up their vehicles so as to cover up other details like rust beneath. It is also important that you check the bumpers and the wheel wells. When you do that, look for signs of rust, dents, or body fillers. Look for rest most especially the underside. If you see exterior rust, there may be more where you cannot see them.
You should also go through both sides of the car. Check also the front, the rear, and the bottom of the vehicle and be on the alert for any signs of major body repair as well as any inconsistencies. The interior should not be simply taken for granted. Look at the interior and check if there are any damages. The upholstery should be checked for any kind of tear or stain as well as sun damage. Check the overall look of the interior.
Lift up the hood and look at the engine and see if it is clean. Look for rust on the exhaust manifold and oil leaks as well. You should also check the oil on the dipstick. Rub it against your thumb. Now, if you feel small particles in the oil, it probably means that the engine may be already worn or may be experiencing some other problems.
Start the engine and take it for a test drive. Be aware of the performance and the handling of the vehicle. Also make sure that the other features are working like the brakes as well as the vehicle's lights.
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. Open 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 ? pop the hood and look carefully at the engine and do not be fooled by a clean compartment. Look at the belts and hoses, the air filter; check 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 making sure everything works properly. Windows should roll up smoothly and quick, door locks should function, the a/c should blow cold, the heat 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 ? 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 dealer 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 buy ? 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.
Both Terry Brown & Chuck Parrish are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Terry Brown has sinced written about articles on various topics from Honda, Cars and Marketing. ###Ter. Terry Brown's top article generates over 12100 views. to your Favourites.
Chuck Parrish has sinced written about articles on various topics from Used Car, Computers and The Internet and VOIP. Chuck Parrish, former used car salesman now consumer advocate, reveals unethical salesman ploys, and how to get cheap used car finance and insurance at his website. Chuck Parrish's top article generates over 1900 views. to your Favourites.