My thoughts on used cars
Buying a used car Inspecting the Car Other issues buying Things to look out for when selling

Inspecting the car

Ok well there is little point in beating the seller up on the price if the car turns out to be a lemon.  I would recommend you do the initial checks yourself but if you’re in any doubt at all a car inspection by a mechanic is money well spent.  A search for “Car Inspection” on www.google.ie will reveal a number of companies offering this service.

 What to ask the seller

  • When it was last serviced (ask to see proof)

  • How many owners

  • For what purpose was the car used for (Hint. Taxi is bad!)

  • If it’s a diesel its very important to ask when the timing belt was done

  • Is there is anything not working (you be surprised how many people don’t ask)

  • If it’s a dealer ask for a written warranty



 

What to check

Car body

Look to see can you find any cracks on the windows, dents, evidence of corrosion, missing hubs, dull mirrors, knackered wipers.  The biggy of course is corrosion and any other evidence that the car might have been in an accident. I strongly recommend you walk away from any used car that has been in an accident as lots of problems can arise later on (and there are plenty of cars out there which have not).  Also in my experience is very hard to get rid of corrosion permanently. To find instances where corrosion has been repaired try to stick a magnet to any areas that appear suspect.  Also be sure to check that the lines of the car body are perfectly straight and that no ripples or the paint is applied the same on all panels.  Check if it the car has a hitch, often this is bad news as a trailer can put a huge strain on the cars engine.
   

The test drive

Don’t ever even consider buying a car without taking it for a test drive...check the car on a number of different terrains i.e. hills, straights and bends.  What to look out for:

  • The car should start first time

  • There should not be excessive smoke from car (sure sign of engine problems)

  • There should not be excessive noise coming from the car.

  • When taking corners pay particular attention to vibrations and noises

  • Try and take the car out on a motorway the car should accelerate without hesitation

  • Also note does the car hold straight and does the steering feel responsive
   



© 2007 Martin. All rights reserved.