Tips for buying a used car by Certified Mechanic Part 2
Hello, everyone Oilboy again, a partner mechanic of Mexpert, and I will continue to write more contents from the first article.
In the previous article, I covered how to research and locate used cars. In this article, I will go detail essential checkpoints to consider when examining a used car.
Let’s dive into the specifics, starting with the exterior, interior, under the hood, and engine parts, broken down into a series of articles. Today, we begin with the exterior.
1. Remember that dealers and sellers are not your side
Discovering critical mechanical issues is absolutely important because failing to identify potential issues before purchasing can lead to substantial repair costs to you.
While dealers/sellers may offer limited warranties, it’s not always straightforward for buyers to claim these benefits, due to a lack of knowledge on how to proceed. Additionally, inspecting a used car is no small feat, given a vehicle comprises 25,000 to 30,000 parts, many of which are not commonly known.
Firstly, allocate ample time for inspection to avoid unforeseen expenses on mechanical repairs.
Second, if possible, visit the dealers/sellers during a sunny daytime, as inspecting the car at night might not reveal minor scratches, dents, or dings clearly. Additionally, inspecting under the hood is challenging in rainy, snowy, or nighttime conditions.
2. Clean title does not mean no accident
Accident signs can often be detected through the vehicle’s paintwork. Carefully examine the paint and alignment of panels. Differences in paint color, texture, and uneven panel gaps may suggest past accidents, potentially unrecorded due to repairs not covered by insurance. Utilizing a paint thickness gauge tool can help measure paint thickness and identify any inconsistencies
3. Tires can tell more than you might guess
Ensure tires are not flat and check the tread depth to gauge their remaining lifespan. Tires are deemed worn out at 2/32 inches or 2.5 mm. Uneven wear may suggest alignment issues. Turn the steering wheel fully to inspect tire conditions thoroughly, including the manufacturing date. Tires typically last seven years, losing flexibility over time, so it’s crucial to check for expiration.
4. Do not underestimate the lighting systems
Ensuring all vehicle lights are functional is imperative, as issues such as malfunctioning brake lamps or Daylight Running Lights not only compromise safety but could also result in fines. It’s important to carefully check for any damage that might permit water entry, which can lead to electrical malfunctions or rust, compromising the vehicle’s integrity and safety. Make a thorough inspection of all lighting components, including taillights, headlights, fog lights, turn signals, brake lights, and reverse lights, to verify they are in good condition. This comprehensive inspection helps guarantee the vehicle’s operations and ensures compliance with safety regulations
5. Brake systems
It’s crucial to thoroughly inspect the brake system, given its paramount importance to vehicle safety. Pay close attention to the condition of brake pads, rotors, and look out for any signs of fluid leaks, as these issues can significantly impact the vehicle’s safety performance. Although the brake components might be partially visible through alloy wheels, providing some insight into their condition, conducting a comprehensive inspection can be notably more difficult with steel wheels. For a more in-depth evaluation, consider consulting a professional mechanic who can ensure the brakes are in optimal condition and identify any potential safety concerns
Stay tuned for more detailed insights into the interior, under the hood, and engine components in upcoming articles.
If you are not familiar with those concepts, but need to buy used cars, considering a Mexpert pre-purchase inspection could be a wise decision