When you’re buying a used car, it’s important to be as diligent as possible to make sure you’re getting a good deal. There are many things you need to check before signing on the dotted line. In this blog post, we will go over 10 things you should look for when buying a used car. By being aware of these things, you can avoid getting scammed by a shady dealer and end up with a car that’s right for you!
Test drive the car
A test drive is by far the most important thing to do when buying a car. You need to make sure that the car feels good, handles well and has no problems with things like acceleration or braking. When you’re driving the car, pay attention to things like how smooth it shifts gears and if there are any strange noises coming from under the hood.
Also, be mindful of things like coolant levels and oil pressure as these can indicate whether or not proper maintenance has been done on the vehicle.
Check for any damage or scratches on the exterior
When it comes to buying a used car, the first thing you should always check for is any damage or scratches on the exterior. This includes things like rust spots, dents, and paint chips. These things may not necessarily be deal breakers when it comes to making your purchase decision but they are things that need to be taken into consideration as they could potentially lower the resale value of the vehicle if you decide to resell it down the line.
Next, you will want to open up the hood and take a look at what’s going on under there. Make sure that all of the belts and hoses are in good condition and none of them appear frayed or brittle. Also, looking around for signs of leaks or corrosion will help you determine if the engine has been well taken care of.
You should also check the tires for any signs of wear and tear that could indicate the need for a tire change. The tire tread depth should be between 2/32-4/32 of an inch, so make sure to measure this before you commit to buying the car.
Look under the hood and check all the fluids
When buying a used car, it’s important to make sure all the fluids are in good shape. Check the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid. Make sure there aren’t any leaks or marks underneath the hood that indicate poor maintenance. If possible, have a mechanic inspect the vehicle for you before making your purchase.
Check the tires and brakes for wear and tear. Look at each tire closely to see if they’re properly inflated and check for uneven tread wear. Have a mechanic check out the brakes to ensure they’re operating correctly and don’t require any repairs or replacements soon after purchase.
Test drive the vehicle before buying it. A test drive will allow you to get a better feel for the vehicle and make sure there are no mechanical issues.