What to look for when buying a used car
An investment is something a person puts money into in hopes that they will receive more than they put in or at least close to the original amount. To many people, a car is that investment and to end up on top one has to know what they are getting themselves into and how to take care of it. A common misconception about car buyers is that many think that if it looks good then it has to be good. This however is not the case you cannot judge a book by its cover, you have to dig a little deeper. The following will help you, the consumer, in purchasing an automobile you can depend on.
A good place to start is with the exterior. Take a walk around and look for any dings, scratches, and any signs of rust, because a body shop can charge a couple hundred dollars just to fix that. When that is finished and you are still satisfied, take a peek under the car and look for any excess signs of rust, especially on the frame itself. Rust is normal for a used car, depending on the year, so do not worry if you see a little rust. However if you see excessive flaking then it is better to stay away.
While you are under the car, look for any leaks around the engine, transmission, brakes, brake lines, and fuel lines. If something appears to be leaking or has leaked in the past, then be sure to ask the sales representative about the history of the vehicle and the leaks and any repairs that were done to it. Again, leaks are normal for a used car but remember that you will have to spend money to fix them. Be sure to know what the value of the car should be and about how much mechanics charge to fix the problems that were noticed on the vehicle before purchasing it.
The next stop is under the hood. Before starting it, make sure to check the fluids: how much oil it has, does the oil smell burnt and is it very black, check if it has the correct amount of steering fluid, brake fluid, and coolant. For the coolant to be good it should be green, pinkish/red, or gold. Coolant should never be brown/black or dirty looking. Also if you check and see no coolant then there could be a leak or even worse the engine could be burning it, which could mean a problem. After checking the fluids, make sure the engine area is relatively clean, cleanliness means that the previous owner did a good job of maintaining his/her vehicle.
Now it is time to start it. After you start it, be sure to notice if it starts right up and starts smoothly. It is ok if it does not start smoothly; just remember that it could mean money coming out of your pocket. While in the car, look at the dashboard to see if any lights stay on and if there are then be sure to ask the representative about them, especially if it says check engine. Before going outside, while pressing the brake pedal slowly shift to reverse and then drive while noticing how long it takes for it to enter into gear and if it shifts hard into gear. Do this two or three times. If the transmission takes more than 2-3 seconds to go into gear or if it shifts hard then these are signs or early signs of a bad transmission that can be very costly.
You may now go outside. With the car running listen for any odd noises to make sure it is running smoothly. Also be sure to look and smell for any smoke or burning. If none then it is time for the test drive. For the test drive make sure to pay attention to how the transmission shifts, if it is a good transmission it should shift smoothly, if not then this could mean a problem. Lastly, check how it drives, making sure to drive on a road with bumps if possible. Are there any odd noises? How does it handle? Does it drive straight if you were to let go of the wheel, and most importantly, does it stop well?
There is a lot to knowing which car is the best, but following closely to this procedure will help determine which is the better buy.
Tips for buying a used car, http://www.kbb.com/used-cars?trid=3&psid=1-1614-50739-633-17686-1&siomid=si_128156678_5717527489_1&sissr=1
Ten steps to buying a used car, http://www.edmunds.com/advice/buying/articles/78387/article.html
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