Important Tips On Purchasing Used Cars

Here are some viable tips related to vehicle history for those looking for a used car:

1. Do your homework: Check all available resources and data including consumer reports and automotive magazines about the vehicle you are considering.

2. Take a look: Do the body parts line up without irregular spacing or rust. Do the doors open and close easily? Do the tires show even wear? Is the paint consistent on the vehicle or does it vary on different body parts?

3. Take a seat: Turn on the ignition without starting the car, do all the warning lights and gauges work? Start the vehicle, check all interior and exterior lights and accessories make sure the warning lights remain lit on the dashboard. While the engine is warming up, look under mats, seats and dashboards for water damage or extensive wear on the break pedals.

4. Lift the hood: Check all hoses and belts for signs of leaks and wear. Does the oil appear dark and dirty on the dip stick? Automatic transmission fluid will have a clear reddish color and should not have a burnt color. Water in the radiator will have a light yellow or green color. It not, it is an indication of overheating or poor maintenance.

5. Listen: Once the engine is warm, race it for a few quick bursts and listen for solid-sounding knocks (a light tick is not a serious problem) and look for blue smoke. With your foot on the brake, put the selector in drive or on a standard transmission let the clutch out slowly. The idle should remain smooth.

6. Hit the road: Slowly take the vehicle up to 35-40 miles per hour. Make sure the shifting is smooth, without hesitation or slipping. With a loose grip on the wheel, check to see if there is any pulling to the right or the left. If there is, that would indicate the need for a front end alignment.

7. Check the sources: When buying from an individual, make sure the name of the vehicle title matches the name on the seller's driver's license. This will guard against many individuals disguised as private sellers who are actually unlicensed or unregulated dealers.

Consumers should ask their local dealer for a CarFax report on the cars they are considering buying. If the report is not available through the dealer, consumers can visit Carfax.com to purchase 60 days of unlimited access to the company's database.

Vehicle History