The best way to feel confident you’re buying a reliable used car is to check its car history report. The seller should provide this to you but if that’s not the case, it’s a good idea to look it up. Find the VIN number and check for any reported major accidents or insurance claims that could still be causing problems. If a repair was done in response to an insurance claim, it will be shown on the report.
Keep in mind your budget, including potential repairs and maintenance needs for the car you’re looking to purchase. You aren’t just dealing with a monthly car payment, especially when it comes to a used car that may have more years and miles under its belt.
When you go to look at the car, pay close attention to how it looks on both the outside and the inside. Things like hail and sun damage can be easy to spot, while signs of water damage may take a bit of a closer look. You should be able to get a good idea of how well the previous owner took care of your potential new car by paying attention to a few key aspects.
You don’t have to live near a flood zone or the ocean to potentially be sold a used car with water damage. They can easily end up long distances from where the water damage occurred and still end up causing you trouble post-purchase.
There are a couple different ways you can look out for possible water damage, including damage to the speakers, upholstery, or carpet. This means if your car is ten years old and you can tell the carpet and/or upholstery is brand new, alarm bells should go off. It could be coincidence, but it’s also worth checking the car’s history for any insurance claims and to see where previous owners lived, if possible.
Weather like hail, sun, and wind can cause extra wear and damage to the exterior of your car that can cause more problems later on. Dents from hail can chip paint and make it easier for rust to grow. Similarly, scratches and wear from sun and wind on your paint can weaken the protective layer, making rust more likely as well as cosmetic issues.
It’s a good idea to take a look at the car’s engine. Even just a quick once-over can say a lot about the car’s previous care, plus things like corrosion and dirt can cause more issues. If you have the time, it’s also a good idea to take a look at the car’s fluids. If they’re low or dirty, you can bring it up to the seller, but it can also indicate larger problems with the car.
The best way to get a feel for any issues with a car you’re looking to buy is to take it out on the open road. Most major issues don’t present themselves while the car is sitting stationary, so pay attention to sounds, smells , and how the car feels when driving.
While you’re driving, listen for any sounds that could indicate a looming repair. Rattling or clunking from beneath or the rear of the car could signal a suspension repair. Grinding, whining, or any other abnormal sounds from under the hood can signal an engine or transmission repair.
Pay attention to any stiffness when turning corners that could indicate a problem with the steering. If you notice an extra bumpy ride, it could indicate a problem with the suspension system. Either could be a simple fix – or a more major and costly auto repair.
When looking to buy a used car, the safest bet to know you’re not getting stuck with a lemon is to have it inspected by a trusted mechanic. At AAMCO Utah , we go above and beyond each time. Our trusted mechanics care about your satisfaction and vehicle performance. You can breathe a sigh of relief when you visit us. Don’t let your next purchase go to waste. Count on our experts to provide the right car diagnostics. You can trust we’ll catch any problems or major repairs before you get stuck with them.
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