ALT-1 What to look for when Buying used Cars
You decided to buy a used car. You know the risk, SO get it done well:1) Select a set of models, select a range for the car age, and fix your budget limits.If you don't know what you are looking for, you will miss good deals, and will end up with a not-so-interesting purchase. You know your budget and what you want to do with your car. Get them on the paper.2) Search for good deals.There are many sources to look for good deals. From public listing and ads sites, to dealerships. It is the time to go out and locate the good deals.3) Examine the seller.Like a dog, a car reflects his owner in many ways. If he seller is a dealership, you can look for their reputation. And, if it is an individual, try to have some info about their job, etc.4) Go and see the car by yourself.When you feel comfortable about the car, it is time to see the car by yourself:4.1) Check the body.The body can tell you a lot about the car and its history. Even excellent treatment of the body cannot stop sharpeyes to locate marks on the body. If there is something wrong, there is no need to waste your and seller time.Marks may be small, but take them seriously.4.2) Write down the VIN number to check it later.
The seller will give you a lot about the car, but he may forget many things, and also it is possible the he is not the first owner of the car. Using the unique number of the car, VIN, you can easily check the history of the car, even the major evens and garage visits. Unfortunately, this service may not be free, but it is better to pay a few bucks and be sure on the quality of purchase. The history check service is available by many agencies, For example,carfax.4.3) Check the motor.A dirty motor is not a good sign. Check the oil. Any mark on the engine should be a turn off for you.
4.4) Check the suspension system.If it is not on form, you will pay a lot to fix it. So, be sure it is smooth.4.4) Ask to start the engine.You are not a mechanic, but you can easily recognize a smooth start-up of a car.4.5) Check the odometer.
On average a car last for 200,000Kms. If you want to invest in a used car for 3 years, and you drive around 30,000Kms a year, the odometer should be less than 110,000Kms, or you are going to do a bad investment.4.5) Ask for a ride.A car is for driving. So, drive the car to see how it works, and also to see if you like it or not.5) Take the car to a mechanic you know.This is another part that you are going to pay. Choose the mechanic by yourself. Ask about all the problems you think the car may have.6) Bargain on the price.You are going to spend a lot on the car after purchase. So, try to share those costs with the seller.Good luck with your purchase!
