Well, buying a new car seems glamorous, but it won’t fit everyone’s budget. So, we recommend buying a used car instead. Sounds chaotic? Are you worried about its functioning, the after-purchase costs involved and its total life? Well, if you are in a confused state of mind to buy a used car, then following are certain things you need to know.
There are several aspects to understand before buying a used car. Take your sweet time and analyze the car from all the angles and views to ensure it has no loopholes. A test drive is an excellent idea before buying it to know its smoothness and efficiency on the road. So, without wasting another second, let us jump onto the essential things to remember.
Checking the Exterior of the Car
One can examine the exterior of the car when it is parked. For instance, look at the condition of its tires, paint condition, any roughness or scratches, car’s trunk, whether the trunk opens easily and has scratches or rust, tire surface, alignment of tires. Similarly, you are also supposed to check the exhaust system, the undercarriage for any spots, scratches or rust. Also, check for any frame damages.
Checking the Interior Portion of the Car
The internal part of the vehicle involves sitting inside and examining the seats, upholstery, adjustment and functionality of the seats, whether the air-conditioner is working or not, refilling of the Freon, the odometer, the onboard computer, indicator and display lights.
Checking Beneath the Hood of the Car
The interior part of the car involves the hood and its smooth opening and closure, hoses and belts, engine performance. The engine is like the CPU of your car, and so, you have to check for any leakages, holes or corrosion. Assess the fluid tanks and look at whether they are empty. In the case of empty fluid tanks, you will have to approach the seller for the same. Check whether the oil cap is leaking or not. The transmission fluid is often an ignored aspect of a used car. Make sure that the fluid is pink or red and must be up to the brim. Though used cars have a darker version of this transmission fluid, it should not have burnt odour.
A Test Drive is Mandatory
Test drive on the road is an excellent way to understand the exact condition of the car, however old it is. Before making any purchase decision, ask the seller for a test drive. If he or she is busy, then book an appointment for the same. Make it a priority as it is a vital step in your car purchase decision. You can even take the ride with the seller so that you can ask relevant questions.
During the test drive, be conscious about certain things such as the brakes, driving the car at varying speeds and how does it run. Also, ask the seller when the car was last serviced and through which agency.
Evaluate the Paperwork of the Car
Check the service history documents to seek a clear idea of its performance, repairs done to it, and any concerns. You can tag your friend along with you who is well-versed with the automotive components and other aspects. If your friend circle does not comprise of such a friend, then you can even hire a local mechanic for a complete inspection. However, make sure that the mechanic has a profound experience in this industry. You can even note down important things while inspecting the used car.
Opting for car inspection services
Probably, you have a fair amount of knowledge about cars, but if you are not an expert in it, hiring used car inspection services would be a wise decision. These agencies are specialized in evaluating used cars and can assist in making purchase decisions. It will cost you a bit but don’t worry; it will be worth every penny you spend on their services. Instead of buying a defective car, it is better to hire expert services and seek valuable opinions from them.
So, we hope that buying a used car will not seem to be overwhelming for you anymore! Happy driving!
