Last updated on October 10th, 2023 at 05:58 pm
A Used Car inspection should be conducted by a professional mechanic. So have a professional before you buy a used car. He will ensure you whether you are paying too much for a car with a limited lifespan.
If you know good enough about cars, then you can do it yourself. You need to check lots of things when buying a used car. Inspecting a used car might be intimidating for beginners. But we are here to make your job difficult to easier. We have listed the basic and technical things you should consider while you are going to buy a used car.
Tips And Tricks On How to Inspect A Used Car
Car Exterior
While checking the exterior of a used car, keep the following important facts in mind:
- Before buying a used car make sure the owner has all the papers and the papers are cleared. Ensure if have any loans of the vehicle and all the loans are completely paid off.
- Ensure you buy the car from the first owner or 2nd owner, don’t go for 3rd owner. If you are buying from the 3rd owner, don’t pay too much for it.
- Check the service history of the car. To make sure the car never had a major accident, drive the car around 30–40 KM/H. Then leave the steering and examine whether the car is moving one side or the other side. If yes, there may be chances of a major accident
- Check the engine works properly. Try to check it while the car starts for the first time in the day. So how much time does it take to start the engine? Turn off the engine and restart again, do it 4–5 times. Check if the engine making any unnecessary noise.
- Check if the engine has black smoke. The black smoke engine needs repair. Check all sensors are working properly.
- Check if there are any oil leaks from the engine.
- Check all electrical functions of the vehicle are working perfectly.
- Check to see if any warning lights in the instrument cluster are illuminated.
- Check all the dents and scratched parts of the car. Examine the car’s body whether there are any portions damaged because of an accident or needs any paint.
- Verify that all lights and lenses are functioning. Check that none of the light lenses are damaged, misted, or misplaced.
- Check to see if the tires have adjusted regularly. Assess for cracks on each wheel.
- Make sure the spare is in good working order. Also, you have the suitable gear and bolt tool.
- Inquire about any glass replacements for minor and severe cracks. It is dangerous to drive a car with a shattered window. Fixing this component is costly as well.
- Wear and tear on types is expected with high mileage use. Replace these tires immediately. A tire with uneven wear shows that you need to repair them.
- Bring the car to an open place where there will be enough light to check the vehicle.
Related search – Used Car Buying Tips: How to Get the Best Deal Negotiating For A Used Car
Car Interior
Afterward, it’s time to turn your attention to the interior. Get inside the car –
- Take a driving test at least 50 KM in low speeds and higher gears, while all the electrical items are ON.
- Check the Clutch and make sure there is no defective clutch and it works fine.
- Check all the gears by changing them multiple times and ensure that are working smoothly.
- What about the seats and carpet? Check if there are any spills on them?
- Assess the seat-adjustment functions. Can the front seats be adjusted and the back seats foldable?
- Is the sound system operational? Test all the auxiliary inputs, USB ports, and Bluetooth connectivity. Check for AM, FM, and satellite radio reception. Try loading and ejecting a CD if the vehicle has one.
- Are the wipers and headlights in good working order? Check the headlights and taillights for any defects.
- Are the pedals working fine? A car with little mileage should not have significant wear on the pedals.
- Does the used car have a foul smell? Search for evidence of water entry in the trunk. Then, examine the carpets for stinky odor, and inspect the spare tire for water.
- Can you operate your doors and windows properly?
- Do you see lights on the dashboard stay on after starting the car?
- Turn on the air conditioning system. Is it warm or cool enough?
- Is there a functional key fob?
- Look for stains in the headliner to find leakage.
- Perceive the drive belts to see if they are ruptured.
- Your car manual will tell you how to monitor fluid balance. If the fluid is honey-colored, it has recently been refilled.
- Greenish stains on the radiator indicate that there are leaks.
- A low-level battery indicates that the battery has been overworked. Any skilled professional may inspect the charging system and perform battery performance testing.
Consult with a Professional
Before you sign the contract, you can also inspect your used car by a company in diagnostics.
A full diagnostic may cost between $100 and $150 but always double-check the pricing.
Wrap Up
While looking for a used car, try to ensure that it’s a good deal. However, you must proceed cautiously and inspect the used car before entering an agreement. Diesel cars have heavy maintenance cost compared to Petrol and CNG cars, diesel car parts are costly as well. This should be kept in mind while buying a used car.
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