Cars, Vans, Trucks, Quad bikes: Buying, Hiring Or Leasing A Car - "How to Check a Used Car" Thursday, 9 September, 2010

Home

How to Check a Used Car

by Dave Zegers

If you do not have the money to buy yourself a brand new car maybe it is an idea to buy yourself a second hand car. If you don't mind that the car has been used before by someone else, then you can get some great deals. All you have to do is pick up a used car listing to see that brand new cars lose anywhere from 30 to 40 percent of their original price in as little as two years. That's a pretty steep number. Here's another number: 65 percent - this is the amount you save if you buy a used car that is five years old, instead of a brand new one.

Theoretically speaking, cars of this age - as long as they have been well cared for - will perform just as well, and are just as reliable as their brand new counterparts. In fact, it may even be better customized for daily use, since it has already been broken in and properly set up.

Of course, you cannot discount the possibility that the used car you are looking at is not in the best of condition. Therefore when surveying used cars to purchase, consult the following tips.

1. Check the Exterior

The first thing to look at is the overall condition of the car's body and finish. Look out for paint blotches and poor body fit. Also look for body filler. You may want to use a simple magnet to help you pinpoint suspicious spots. Finding any of these is evidence of a previous car collision.

Also look out if the car is newly painted. You may want to inquire why this is so. It may mean a major overhaul due to some extensive damage. Rust is a bad sign of body damage, so is dampness in the trunk [UK: boot].

2. Check Suspension

Go to each corner of the car and push down on them. If the car bounces more than once, you may need to have shocks installed.

Try nudging or pulling the wheels from beside the car. If the wheels can be nudged, or if they move in or out, there could be serious damage to the CV joints or the bearings.

If tire wear is uneven, this is indicative of bad suspension. If the car you are checking has new tires, you will have to exercise more caution and test the suspension thoroughly.

3. Check the Insides of the Car

Make sure the upholstery, odor, and condition of the car's interior are acceptable and in line with the age of the car.

4. Take It for a Spin

Have a friend observe you while you take the car for test drive. The car should be stable and should not show signs of shifting from side to side. If it does, there could be a major problem with the frame or suspension. If you can, have a mechanic look at it too.

The internet has changed the way everyone does business. Businesses have begun to explore how the internet can facilitate better, faster and more convenient operations. This has resulted in businesses that offer anything online - from selling clothes and shoes, to ordering pizza online and even searching for available realty. Believe it or not, you can even search for used cars online too.

Other articles you may find interesting:

Used Car Auctions: Do's and Don'ts

by Thomas H. Miller

So you are looking for a car or truck, but you're tired of running around town and finding other people selling their "headaches" through the local classifieds, or dealers offering "cream-puffs" for inflated retail prices. All you want is a good vehicle for a good price. Period. Does such a deal exist? Yes, indeed! Repossession auctions are becoming more and more popular across the country. I have been attending them for over 20 years, and have purchased many cars and trucks at bargain prices - everything from a brand new car (still with the window sticker on it and 3
Read this article in full

Buying A Used Car - The Wise Way!

by Ryan Larson

I have always purchased my cars used. And each time, I got a great deal. Don't think I counted on luck, though - no siree. There are a few "musts" for making sure you don't end up drinking "lemon"-ade.

Spending a little time now may save you serious money later. Check Consumer Reports on the safest cars out there. Looks are one thing, but don't ignore safety.

Go to a reputable car repair shop and ask if you can bring the vehicle by for a look-over. While you're there, ask what cars they have to repair most often. Take heed. Also, ask what the inspection includes,
Read this article in full

Is A Pre-Purchase Inspection Worth The Cost When Buying A Used Vehicle?

by D Ruplinger

When people are doing research on how to buy a used vehicle, they often see information encouraging them to have an independent pre-purchase inspection done of the vehicle before purchasing it, but people may wonder whether or not it's worth the money. It is almost always a good investment.

For around $100 you can typically get a general inspection of the mechanical condition of a vehicle. It is generally a good idea to have this done even if the vehicle has been certified and inspected by the dealer. Ask your regular car mechanic to do the inspection for you. If
Read this article in full

5 Things To Know When Shopping For Car Rentals

by John Manci

For most people the use of a car rental is a necessity. It generally is done as the result of a need for a replacement vehicle for a period of time. Most people do not rent cars on a regular basis and do not know all the ins and outs involved in the rental contract. There are some very basic, although important steps that should be followed when renting a car.

You do not need to have personal auto insurance to rent a car; they will ask you if you would like to purchase their insurance for the duration of
Read this article in full

Checklist for buying at used car auctions

by Paul Fryatt

This is the second part of a 2-article series. Click here to read the first part, Used car auctions - good or bad?

Checklist

You will need to inspect any car you are interested in long before the car goes in the auction to be sold. When you find a car that is suitable, go through this checklist.

It's very important to examine the car while the car is parked up, because it will be a little more difficult when the car is lining up to be sold and then everybody else will be looking. Best to check round the car when
Read this article in full