This information offers tips to help you inspect your vehicle before your purchase.

 Vehicle Body | Vehicle Interior | Engine Compartment | Useful Tips | Return to "Buying Used"

BODY OF VEHICLE:

Inspect for ripples in paint and body, fresh welds, difference in tone color (i.e. 1 door lighter or darker than the other).

Inspect for uneven tire wear. Uneven tire wear may indicate an alignment problem or accident damage.

Push down hard on each corner of the vehicle two or three times and notice the vehicles response - continuous "bounce" may indicate shock or strut problems and also make sure the car is sitting on a flat level surface as you scan the vehicle front to back. Leaning one way or another may suggest spring damage.

VEHICLE INTERIOR

Check the trunk area for spare tire wear and as you perform this function, check underneath the spare for any sign or moisture. Moisture in the trunk area suggests water leakage. Is there a musty smell?

Check the rubber molding around the trunk jamb for firmness and wear.

If the trunk is carpeted, feel the carpet for any sign of dampness and mold. Are there stains present?

Before you test drive, inspect the drivers seat for spring damage. A saggy drivers seat indicates heavy usage. (no pun intended)

If your vehicle is so equipped, make sure that all of the power options work to your satisfaction. Power windows, power locks, power seats and mirrors etc.

Look closely at the vehicle's carpeting and seating, look for stains, mildew, rips, tears and any discoloration.

Check the stereo system, cassette, CD player and changer for correct operation.

Check the air conditioning if so equipped, at the same time test the blower motor - start from low and proceed to the high setting while staying at each setting 10-15 seconds. Does this work to your satisfaction?

Now let's move on to the lighting. Test the turn signals, head lights, high beams and brake lights. Now turn on the windshield wipers. Cruise control should be checked during your test drive. Does everything work to your satisfaction?

ENGINE COMPARTMENT

Before starting the vehicle, inspect the oil, radiator fluid and belts.

Radiator: Look closely at the color of the radiator fluid, is any rust observed? Greenish stains suggest radiator leaks.

Now check the oil. Pull out the dip stick and observe the color of the oil - is it black? Does it smell burnt? Can you notice any pieces of foreign matter such as metal shavings? Is there foam on the dip stick? If you answered yes to any of these questions, stay away from this vehicle.

The belts should be tight with approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch play depending upon the make and model of the vehicle. Check for belt fray and cracks in the belts as well

MORE USEFUL TIPS

Ask the dealer for regular vehicle maintenance records. These records may indicate a good buy as opposed to low mileage. A vehicle seldom driven or on short trips and not serviced can be a poor bargain.

Ask the dealer if you can contact the former owner(s) - Most dealers must have the former owners permission before they can provide this information but it never hurts to ask.

Always consider insurance costs, never assume an older vehicle will lower insurance premiums. See Insurance Tips

NEVER purchase a vehicle during your first visit to the dealer. Always get as much information as you can from the dealer and walk! That's right walk. Tell them that you are going to visit other dealerships in your area and that you may return to their dealership..

Always know your wants and needs regarding your purchase beforehand.

Know your limits: How much can you afford to spend overall. If you have shopped for more than 1 vehicle, use our handy Cost Comparison Calculator. Don't bury yourself in debt - Use WheelsDirect2U.com's Free Purchase/Lease Analysis.

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