Buying a second hand car may involve a lot of risks since you’re not sure if the car was well-maintained by the previous owner. Also, sellers will definitely not tell you about any damage the car has, if in case it does have one. Because of this, it is difficult to decide whether a used car is a good buy or not. This is especially true if the buyer doesn’t have enough knowledge about vehicles.
In this article, we’ll help you solve this dilemma and assist you in determining whether the car you’re looking at is in great condition. Here are a few smart practices in order to ensure that you get the most out of your hard-earned money.
1. Check if the vehicle’s engine number is the same as the one which is written on the registration document. Also, you have to make sure that it was not changed or tampered with.
2. Check if the bodywork is in good condition. Also, it is best to inspect for any signs of rust or corrosion. Mind you, rust might be present on cars which are more than 5 years. Also, you have to make sure that there are no rust blemish as this would translate to a more serious corrosion problem underneath the vehicle.
3. Be a smart buyer and check the odometer. If the numbers are out of line, this means that the mileage has been altered. Also, compare if the mileage corresponds to the vehicle’s overall condition. Work marks and pedals would suggest a high mileage.
4. Never base your decision on the car’s exterior. Mind you, a second hand car may hide the damages and you can’t determine it if you are only focusing on the car’s appearance. Check the history records in order to see if the vehicle has been well-maintained by the previous owner. Also, feel free to ask if you can check the car’s repair and service history as well. If this is your first car, having an experienced mechanic by your side would be an advantage.
5. And most importantly, take the car for a test drive. This way, you can easily determine if the car has suspension or transmission problems. It would also help you determine how the car performs. Don’t forget to check the brakes too.