When purchasing a used car, a thorough inspection and understanding of the vehicle’s history, condition, and overall value are crucial. To ensure you make a wise investment, here’s an extensive guide on what to check when buying a used car:
- Research the Vehicle
- Check Reviews and Common Issues: Look up the make and model to find out about its reliability, common faults, and maintenance costs.
- Market Value: Use resources like Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, or NADA Guides to understand the fair market value of the car based on its age, mileage, and condition.
- Vehicle History Report
- Obtain a vehicle history report using the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) from services like Carfax or AutoCheck. This report can provide critical information about past ownership, accident history, service points, and other red flags.
- Exterior Inspection
- Body Condition: Check for rust, dents, and scratches. Look for signs of new paint or body filler, which may indicate repairs after a crash.
- Glass: Look for cracks or large chips in the windshield and windows.
- Lights and Lenses: Ensure all are intact and working. Check for moisture in housings.
- Tires: They should be worn evenly and match. Check the tread depth for adequate remaining life.
- Interior Inspection
- Upholstery: Look for tears, stains, and excessive wear in the seating and carpeting.
- Controls and Dashboard: Ensure all switches, gauges, and instruments are functional.
- Odors: Mustiness may indicate water leaks or flood damage. A strong smell of cleaner may be used to mask issues.
- Under the Hood
- Engine: Look for leaks, rust, and oil level. Check the oil condition—if it’s gritty or overly thick, it might have been neglected.
- Belts and Hoses: Look for cracks or wear.
- Radiator: Check coolant fluid. It should not be rusty or have oil mixed in.
- Battery: Check for corrosion and ensure it is secured.
- Under the Vehicle
- If possible, examine underneath for leaks, rust or damage in the exhaust system, and signs of bending or major repairs on the frame which could indicate a serious past accident.
- Driving Test
- Engine Performance: It should start easily, idle smoothly, and accelerate without hesitating.
- Brakes: Listen for squeaking, feel for grinding, and notice if the car pulls to one side when stopping.
- Transmission: It should shift smoothly without delay or noise. For manuals, ensure the clutch engages properly.
- Handling: The car should handle corners smoothly, without strange noises from the suspension.
- Noise: Listen for any unusual engine or road noise.
- Professional Inspection
- If you’re serious about the car, consider getting a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic. This can be a valuable investment, saving you from expensive repairs down the line.
- Negotiate the Price
- Armed with the knowledge from your inspection and the vehicle history report, you are in a stronger position to negotiate the price. Point out any issues you’ve found to the seller as reasons for a lower price.
- Legal and Paperwork Verification
- Title: Check that the title is clean (not “salvaged” or “rebuilt”). Ensure the seller is the true owner.
- Registration: Verify that the vehicle is currently registered and that there are no unpaid fines or liens against it.
- Warranties: Ask if any part of the original manufacturer’s warranty is still valid.
By understanding the full spectrum of checks and inspections necessary when considering a used car, you can make a more informed and confident decision, ensuring a better outcome in your car buying journey. Always be prepared to walk away if something doesn’t feel right, and never rush into a decision.