How To Easily Examine A Used Car

Automotive Blog

You've decided that it's time to purchase a car. The first decision that you've made is to purchase a used car. This way, you don't have to deal with instant depreciation. Plus, with the pre-owned auto sales certification process, you can purchase a used car that has already been inspected. This prevents you from purchasing a vehicle that has hidden debilitating issues.

However, you still need to know how to examine a used car. By learning a few basic tricks, you can prevent yourself from purchasing a lack luster vehicle.

A Step by Step Guide to Purchasing a Used Car

Once you've found yourself face to face with a used car, it's time to start inspecting. Any used auto sales expert will allow you plenty of time and access to thoroughly examine the car. Below is a guide for examining a used car.

Step 1: Check for Signs of Poor Alignment.

It's easy to check for signs of alignment issues. Simply check out the tires! Uneven wear on the tire tread can be indicative of a possible problem with alignment. Check for balding on the sides or in the middle. These signs could mean that there is a front-end alignment problem or suspension issue. Both of these problems can be very costly repairs. Don't worry if the alignment is even, but it's thin. You can simply replace the tires.

Step 2: Look for Signs of Previous Body Repair.

Before you head to the used auto sales dealership, snag a light refrigerator magnet. Place it gently throughout various parts of the body panels, such as the lower door or the front fender. If it doesn't stick, that means there is plastic body filler. This means that the vehicle has been in a car accident and has received repairs. If you stand five to six feet away from the vehicle, do the body parts line up?

If you do suspect an accident, ask the sales person at the used auto sales dealership for the history of the vehicle. It's possible that the accident warranted body repairs but did not cause any serious damage.

Step 3: Conduct a Thorough Test Drive

There are several things to look for when conducting a test drive. How comfortable are the seats? Is the steering wheel too high, too low or adjustable? Perhaps the most important aspect of the test drive is listening to the engine. When you start it up, is there any clicking or tapping? These noises can indicate valves that need adjustment. When the engine is running, are there any grinding noises when shifting gears? This can mean it needs serious transmission work.

By conducting this three step inspection of a prospective used car, you'll be able to determine if the car is worth your hard earned money.

Share

7 January 2015

About Greg Chapman

When I was little, I'd watch old movies with my grandfather. One of my favorite scenes was when Steve McQueen tried to jump that big fence on his motorcycle in "The Great Escape." After I saw that, I just wanted a motorcycle. I was obsessed with them! My grandpa knew that, and he helped me build one for myself. He took me shopping for all the parts, taught me about the mechanics of it all, and walked me through all the building and repairs. Since then, my love has expanded to all things that run with a motor, including cars. Even though I'm not a professional, I'm quite skilled, and that has proven handy when it comes to my own repairs and the simple enjoyment of riding my bikes. Check out my blog!