How To Evaluate Used Cars
Generally what would you need to do, when you intend to buy a second hand car? Besides the ‘normal’ persons impulse of buying it just based on it’s looks, there are many other factor’s that you would have to consider.
You would normally start with estimating a budget for the said purchase, followed by selecting a particular model range and would then compare prices available, to make sure you’re getting a good deal. This scenario is quite normal, it happens at every part of the world. Now, let’s say you’ve done all that, the next important thing now is to make sure the used car is good buy, in every true sense of the word. Checking a used car before committing to a purchase, will help you, in the long run.
Here are several things to look out for when evaluating used cars :
- Engine - Check to see if there is oil covering the external parts of the engine. If this is evident, then it’s going to be expensive to fix.
- Tyres - It’s most likely that the seller won’t put on a new set of tyres and if it’s a dealer, they will change it but for a charge, trust me it doesn’t come free. So, look for tread wear and check to see if there is any uneven wear on the edges. This will also determine if any, wheel alignment problems.
- Body Condition - Open the door to get a better look at the body. Any part that looks like it’s new or is covered with fresh paint is an indication that the car has been in an accident. Check the bolts and nuts around the engine cover perimeter, if it is painted, then you know for sure, the car was involved in a frontal collision before.
- Exhaust - Step on the accelerator as the car is in a parked position, see if there is any white/black smoke being emitted out. If this happens, then it will be also expensive to overhaul. Before starting, if it’s possible, try to grab the muffler and see it will fall apart in your hands (don’t worry, you should only do this if it is a very, very old car) A rusty muffler will not last very long.
- Suspension - Have a test drive with the vehicle and check on the suspensions. If the ride is hard then you might have some things to look out for. Start by checking for rust around all the suspension parts. A lot of older cars rust at the top mounting plate, found at the top of the shocks. If you find greasy/oily marks on the suspensions, this means that there is a leak.
- Steering - A lot of play in the steering wheel shows a lot of hard wear and indicates that the steering system will probably need to be replaced. If there are two inches or so of play and yet the tyres aren’t turning, watch out, the problems go beyond that.
- Brakes - Check the brake pads for wear. A hard driven car will show on the brakes.
- Fluids - Best way would be to look at the ground to see if there are any stains, due to fluid leaks. It may indicate bad seals, and may need replacing. Also check that oil fluids are clean. Dirty oil is a sure sign of neglect.
Remember, a ‘well kept’ used car (creme puff) is a car that you will not have to spend a lot of money on.
