Inspecting the exterior of the used vehicle

October 11, 5:59 AMAutomotive ExaminerKyle Busch

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The current economic slowdown will offer some
excellent buying opportunities in the used car market.
Buying a vehicle for cash will enable you to drive right
past the current credit freeze.

Consider the following when inspecting the exterior
of a used vehicle:

· Observe the environment that surrounds the
  vehicle. The seller’s surroundings should look
  maintained and be consistent with the condition
  of the vehicle. A good looking vehicle in poorly
  maintained surroundings is not a good sign!

Does the car have a good stance? 

· Slowly walk
  around the
  vehicle. It
  should have
  a good stance
  (even height
  from left to
  right and a
  bit taller at
  the rear than
  the front).

· If your state has emissions and inspections, check the
  dates on the windshield. The vehicle should have at
  least 4 months or more until the inspections are due.

· Look on the pavement underneath the vehicle for any
  fluid spots. Also use a flashlight to look for fluid drips
  on the bottom of the engine, transmission, radiator, etc.
  Avoid vehicles with any kind of fluid leaks!

· Use a flashlight to inspect the exhaust system, frame, and
  floor pan. Take your time and be sure to inspect both sides
  of the vehicle.

· Use a flashlight to inspect each wheel well for any fluid
  leaking from the shock absorbers. Also, push down in a
  rocking motion at each corner of the vehicle. A good
  shock absorber will rise and stop rather than bouncing
  up and down.

· Inspect the tires for even tread wear (an indication that
  the steering and suspension components are in good shape).
  The tires should be the same brand at all four wheels.
  Tires that do not match could be a quick visual “fix”
  to hide a steering or suspension problem.

· If you are concerned that the vehicle has had bodywork,
  use a thin cloth or paper towel (to protect the paint) and
  use a small magnet to probe the body at various points.
  The magnet will not be attracted to autobody filler.

· If you are concerned about the car being repainted,
  use a magnifying glass to carefully inspect the door
  lock areas and the chrome or rubber moldings for
  paint overspray.

Last, but not least, be sure to take a used vehicle to a mechanic
who can put the car on a lift and give it a good test drive, etc.

Kyle Busch is the author of “Drive the Best for the Price…” He
welcomes your comments or car questions at his auto web site: www.DriveTheBestBook.com.