Getting a good used car can be a daunting task, whether you buy from a private seller or a dealership. To buy the right used car, there is an essential inspection checklist you need to look at to help you make a safe and more informed decision. The pre-purchase inspection paints a picture of the car's history, highlighting insurance write-offs, warranty, outstanding credit, and previous accidents. Here is the essential used car checklist to help you get a good and genuine deal during your used car buying process that will give you peace of mind.
Check for the Used Car Documentation
The documents for the used car will help you understand the car's history. The title can help you get the history of the previous owners and the VIN. You also know the vehicle history report, including records of accidents written off, recorded as lost, or outstanding finance. The past service records help you understand the used vehicle's mileage since some sellers might wind back the odometer to prove that the car has been less used and charge you more.
Check the Engine
The engine is the most important component of the used car checklist and needs a lot of time and keenness. A well-maintained engine with good hoses will perform well without producing excess exhaust smoke or unusual noises. Be keen on engine oil leaks since a well-maintained used car should be free of leaks. Check the undercarriage of the used vehicle for any spills. Make sure the fluid levels including brake fluids, and transmission fluid are sufficient. Check the exhaust smoke colours and be keen on red flags like excess blue, black, or white smoke.
Check the Gearbox and Clutchbox
You can have a feel of how the vehicle shifts its gears. You can get cars with a manual or automatic gearbox but they all should engage gears smoothly and quietly. If you realize resistance or noises while shifting gears, there is a point of concern; hence, you should check the maintenance records. Whichever type of gearbox you get, be sure to test the gears and ascertain that all the gears are engaging smoothly, and the kickdown works well for automatic gears and the gear levers for manual mode.
Brakes and Lights
Test the car's electronics and be sure the lights are working well. Check the headlights, taillights, brake lights and indicators to be sure they're in working condition. As you test the brake lights, be sure the brakes are responsive and don't produce grinding or squealing noises, which are signs of rust.
Exterior and Bodywork Checks
You can assess the body panels and point out signs of rust, dents, scratches, or corrosion. Dents and dings are common on used cars, but a chipped front could be due to a lot of heavy motorway miles. Check the tire's tread depth and be sure they're in perfect condition. You will need replacement if there are signs of wear and tear, splits, gouges, or uneven wear.
Interior Check
The interior should be in good condition with working electric features like coolant, windows, sunroof, odometer and the air conditioning system. Check the upholstery for tears and the dashboard for odometer mileage or warning lights.
Visit us at FFUN Cars for a certified pre-owned vehicle test drive to help you have a thorough inspection of the used car. Get unbeatable prices and discounts informed by the Kelley Blue Book and comfortably drive your next used SUV, sedan, or minivan.
