How to Inspect a Used Car Before You Buy It

If you are buying a used car, it’s a good idea to inspect it before you buy it. If you don’t, you might have brought home a piece of junk. So let’s get started, just follow the steps below to continue.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. You will need a flashlight, a magnet, rags for checking fluid levels, a CD, a notebook, a calculator, and clothing that you won’t mind getting dirty.

2. Use your flashlight to examine the engine. Look for oil stains, worn or cracked hoses and belts. Check all fluids to make sure it is at the proper level. Look for corrosion on the battery poles.

3. Take a look at the exterior. Check the gaps on the doors, hood, and trunk. Any irregular gap indicates that the car has been in an auto accident. Use a magnet. A magnet that sticks to the vehicle means it’s good. If it doesn’t stick, that part is damaged.

4. Look under the vehicle for fluid leakage. Also look for rust.

5. If water spits out of the tail pipe, the car has a blown head gasket. If the exhaust is oily or has a bluish smoke coming out of it, the compression rings are worn and needs to be replaced.

6. Check all lights. If a light doesn’t come on, a bulb may have been burned out or you may have an electrical problem.

7. Take a note of the mileage. Test out the radio by playing a CD. Check all windows and locks to make sure it woks. Check the floors. A stained or wet floor can mean the car is leaking.

8. Take the car out for a test run. Check the shocks by rocking each corner of the vehicle or going over speed bumps. Take the car to a mechanic. Get all records of the car. So that’s it, you are done.