A Quick Used Car Buying Checklist

If you are thinking about buying a used car, then it is important to inspect it properly. Follow this used car buying checklist for everything you need to know.

When your car's repairs start to mount, it's time to look into getting a replacement vehicle. And if you're wondering about new vs used, it's wise to keep in mind the savings that come with purchasing a used vehicle. But what should you remember to check when you're sizing up options?

Keep reading to find a quick and convenient used car buying checklist!

Look Under the Hood When You Purchase a Used Car

When you're looking to buy a used car, make one of your first tasks popping the hood. You'll want to inspect everything underneath it to see how well the car has been treated. You can start by evaluating the fluids. 

Transmission fluid levels should be high, as should brake fluid. If either level is low, you can count on a potentially costly repair in the near future. Low transmission fluid can lead to gear slippage, which translates to sluggish acceleration.

Then look at the dipstick to see if the oil is light and clean. If it's dark, that means you'll need to pay for an oil change right away. And if you see any oil in the antifreeze, you may have a leak.

Overall, you want to see a vehicle that does not reflect rust or damage beneath the hood. The battery and belts should be intact and free of any signs of decay, like frayed edges or corroded patches.

Put a Test Drive on Your Used Car Buying Checklist

Before you purchase a used car, make sure that you test drive it. This is your opportunity to see how smooth the ride is and how quiet the car is. You'll also be able to check for potential red flags.

If you notice any lights on the dashboard indicating engine issues, it's fair to ask for proof that the car is issue-free. And if you're driving down the road and experience vibrations or hear clunking noises, you may want to look for another car.

Does the car swerve or does the steering wheel favor one side? A car that leans heavily to one side could signal damage to the frame. Look for evidence of worn down suspension parts and tires that have uneven wear. 

Try driving on both highways and neighborhood streets. Sluggish acceleration and sloppy handling are indications that a particular vehicle won't be comfortable. While you're at it, don't forget to check that the brakes offer a safe stopping distance!

Finally, on your test drive, consider the overall comfort and smell. Bad odors from cigarette smoke or pets will be difficult or impossible to remove!

Check for Visual Signs of Deterioration in a Used Vehicle

When you see your potential car, how does it look? Look for signs of hail damage that indicate a car may have had to brave the elements during a summer storm. Likewise, a car may have rust or corrosion from traveling on winterized roads during the snowy season.

If the car has been in a collision, you may find evidence that the previous owner is trying to conceal it. Paint that peels away from rusted areas is a telltale sign. 

Additionally, look for gaps in the body panel placement. These could be indicative of previous collisions that were repaired but not reported to insurance.

When you look inside the car, what is the condition of the upholstery? It's easy to replace floor mats, though it is another expense. Excessive wear to the driver's seat can be problematic, however, since it could interfere with comfort on longer trips.

Bend down to inspect the car's undercarriage for signs of damage. You should not see bent parts or lots of sealer smeared across parts, which indicates a poor fix. Look to see that the wheels look equidistant from each other and assess all metal for signs of rust.

You can use the tires to help gauge a car's age and condition, too. Low tread depth means you'll end up spending a few hundred dollars on new tires in the near future. Similarly, tires that don't maintain the right pressure before and after a drive could suggest a slow leak.

Add a Car History Report to Your Inspection Checklist

Requesting a vehicle history report is a must when it comes to a used car buying checklist. If the current owner won't provide one, you can purchase one. You also can invest in a professional mechanic to take a look at the car and ensure that it is safe to drive.

You should ask to see the car's title to confirm that it's not a salvage title. If it is, you may have trouble securing financing. And you should confirm that the names on the title and registration do indeed match. 

Ask for repair records. If the seller is unable to provide a detailed history of the car, you won't know what you're getting into. On the other hand, a folder full of records suggests that the previous owner was diligent about routine maintenance. 

Even if you're on a budget, it's not worth taking on an inexpensive car that turns into a money pit later. For instance, if you see evidence of regular oil changes, you can be more confident that the engine won't have an expensive issue. You also should look to see if milestone servicing needs, like timing belt replacement, have occurred. 

Buy a Used Car

Grab your used car buying checklist before you head out the door. You want to ensure that you're getting a car in good condition given its age. And you want to know what questions to ask the seller to get as complete of a history as possible.

Ready to upgrade your ride? Contact us and we can help you find the right used vehicle for your needs!