Buying a used car can be exciting, but it can also feel a little overwhelming. After all, you want to make sure you’re getting a good deal and not ending up with a lemon. Knowing how to inspect a used car is key to making a smart purchase. But fortunately, you don’t need to be a mechanic to check the basics. With just a few simple steps, you can spot issues early and avoid buying a car that might cost you more down the road.
How to inspect a used car
1. Start with the basics: body check
Before you even get into the car, take a walk around it. Look for any signs of accidents or repair work. Things like mismatched paint, dents, or uneven gaps between body panels could mean the car has been in a crash. This is one of the first steps in how to inspect a used car. Don’t forget to check the roof, hood, and trunk for rust. Rust can spread quickly and be expensive to fix.
Here’s a quick list to check:
- Look for dents or scratches.
- Check for rust, especially in the wheel arches and under the car.
- See if the paint matches on all panels.
- Look at the tyres for even wear. Uneven wear can indicate alignment or suspension issues.
2. Check the tyres
The tyres can tell you a lot about the car. Uneven wear might mean the car’s alignment is off or there’s an issue with the suspension. Make sure the tread depth is enough to pass safety standards, and check for any bald spots. If the tyres look worn down, you might be looking at additional costs soon.
Take a quick look at the following:
- Are the tyres worn evenly?
- Do the tyres match in brand and size?
- Is there visible damage like cracks or bulges?
3. The interior: check the condition
Now that you’ve inspected the body and tyres, it’s time to get inside the car. The interior of the car tells you a lot about how well it’s been maintained. Look at the seats for any tears, stains, or signs of heavy use. If the seats are worn out, it could be a sign that the car has been used heavily. It’s also a good idea to check the dashboard for any warning lights. If any lights are on, it could indicate hidden issues.
When inspecting the interior, pay attention to:
- The seats: Are they in good condition? Any rips or stains?
- The dashboard: Are there any warning lights on?
- The steering wheel: Does it feel smooth, or is it worn out?
- The air conditioning and heating: Do they work properly?
4. Take it for a test drive
The test drive is one of the most important parts of how to inspect a used car. This is your chance to see how the car handles on the road and to check for any strange noises or vibrations. Pay attention to how the car accelerates, brakes, and turns. Listen for any unusual sounds, like rattles, squeaks, or grinding noises.
These could be signs of common problems in used cars, like engine or transmission issues. Also, check how the car handles bumps and uneven roads. If the car feels unstable, it could be a sign of suspension problems.
When driving, focus on the following:
- Acceleration: Does it feel smooth or sluggish?
- Brakes: Do they respond well, or do you feel any pulsing?
- Steering: Is the steering wheel steady or does it pull to one side?
- Noises: Listen for any unusual sounds while driving.
5. Check under the hood
Pop the hood and take a look at the engine. You don’t need to be a mechanic, but you should still check for any obvious issues. Look for any signs of leaks, corrosion, or worn-out parts. Make sure the belts and hoses are in good condition and that there are no cracks. If the engine looks clean and well-maintained, that’s a good sign. But if it looks neglected, it could be a red flag.
Here’s what to check under the hood:
- Look for leaks, especially around the engine.
- Check the belts and hoses for cracks or wear.
- Make sure the battery terminals are clean and not corroded.
- Check the oil level and its colour (dark oil may indicate the car hasn’t been well maintained).
6. Check the car’s history
Before you commit, it’s important to know the car’s history. Ask for the service records to see if the car has had regular car maintenance. You should also check if it’s ever been in an accident or if there are any open recalls. You can use online tools to look up the car’s history based on the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This is an essential part of how to inspect a used car, as it helps you know if you’re buying a car with a bad history.
Check the following:
- Ask for maintenance and service records.
- Use the VIN to check for accidents, recalls, or theft.
- Look for any outstanding recalls that need attention.
7. Look for leaks
Leaks under the car can point to a variety of problems, from coolant leaks to oil leaks. If you notice any spots where fluids have been leaking, it’s important to figure out what the fluid is. Take a good look underneath the car while it’s parked on a flat surface. If the car has a significant leak, you may want to walk away, as repairs can be costly.
When looking for leaks, check for:
- Any visible fluid stains under the car.
- What type of fluid is leaking (oil, coolant, brake fluid).
- If the car smells like fuel, it could indicate a serious issue.
8. Check the exhaust system
A healthy exhaust system is crucial for the car’s performance. While inspecting the exhaust, look for any holes, rust, or signs of damage. If the exhaust system looks worn out or corroded, you may need to factor in repair costs. You should also listen for any unusual noises when the car is running, as loud or rattling noises could point to an issue with the exhaust.
Look for the following:
- Check for rust or holes in the exhaust system.
- Listen for any strange sounds when the car is running.
- Check for black smoke coming out of the exhaust, which can indicate engine problems.
9. Check the suspension
The suspension is key to the car’s stability and comfort. When you’re test driving, pay attention to how the car feels on bumps and uneven roads. If the car bounces too much or feels unstable, the suspension may need work. You can also check the shock absorbers by pressing down on the car’s corners. If the car bounces back up too many times, the shocks might be worn out.
Check for the following signs of suspension issues:
- The car bounces excessively on bumps.
- The car feels unstable or sways during turns.
- Press down on each corner of the car to test the shock absorbers.
10. Check the price
Finally, make sure the car is priced right. Research the value of the car by looking up its make, model, year, and condition. There are many online tools that can help you determine if the price is fair. If the car is priced too low, it could be a sign of hidden issues. If it’s priced too high, it might not be worth the money.
To check the price:
- Research the market value of the car.
- Compare prices for similar cars in your area.
- Be cautious of a price that seems too good to be true.
11. Don’t rush
Finally, when learning how to inspect a used car, don’t rush into the decision. Take your time and make sure the car meets your needs and expectations. Don’t be afraid to walk away if something doesn’t feel right. It’s always better to wait for the right car than to settle for something that could cost you later.
By following these steps on how to inspect a used car, you’ll be able to avoid many common pitfalls and make a smart purchase. Remember, the key is to stay patient, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to walk away if something doesn’t feel right. Good luck!