How to Check Out a Used Car

Even a good looking car needs to be checked out carefully.

Before you even take the used car you are considering buying to a mechanic to be checked out, there are many things you can look for to help you decide whether or not you are even interested in buying the used car.

Instructions

1. Start the motor and let it run for a few minutes. Listen to the engine. The engine should idle smoothly without any grinding or knocking sounds.

2. Sit in the car. Take a deep breath and see if there are any unusual odors. The smell of mildew is a bad sign.

3. Look for signs that a major repair has been done to the car. Structural repairs, new bumpers or mismatched paint may be indications that the car has had major repair work done on it. Look under the car as well. Check for dents or major scrapes.

4. Look for rust or other signs of water. Check out the seat belts. Look for dried dirt or water damage on the belts.

5. Take the car for a ride. Check out all the systems: the radio, the windshield wipers, heat, air conditioning, headlights, interior lights. Make sure the odometer is working.

6. Check out the tires. The tires should be evenly worn. Determine if the car pulls to one side when driven.

Tips & Warnings

• Some problems can only be detected by a mechanic. The seller should allow you to have a mechanic look at the car before you buy it.