How to choose a used car: what you need to know when buying a used car

A used car is much cheaper than a new one. However, it is important to be especially careful when choosing such a car. During the time of use by the previous owner, parts can wear out, perhaps there was an accident. What do I need to know when buying a car with mileage?

What you need to do when choosing a used car

What is definitely important to ask about before buying a used car:

• Data about the owner to whom the car is registered.
• State number and VIN-code.
• Where were technical inspections and repairs carried out? Is there a document with records of this?.
• Have technical fluids and consumables been replaced long ago? What parts and assemblies of the car have been updated?.
• Has the car been in an accident?.
• Does the car owner agree to have the car diagnosed at a service station?.
• Check the data on customs clearance, whether the car is not arrested for debts.

It is desirable to inspect the car together with a partner who understands its structure, even if the buyer himself is also an expert in it. Two will be able to notice more features and shortcomings of the car. It is good if you have a body paint thickness gauge with you, which measures the paint layer. This will help to determine whether the car has been beaten up and whether the body surface has been restored. Inspect not only the body and major parts, but also the gaps between them, the space under the hood, the serviceability of all components and systems.

Peculiarities of inspection of a used car before purchase

What is important to pay special attention to when inspecting a car with mileage:

• If the under-hood space is impeccably clean, without dust - this is a sign that oil leaks were most likely removed. In a serviceable vehicle, there should be none.
• Rubber hoses should be intact and elastic.
• When the air conditioner is on, the compressor should work properly.
• Inspect if there is no rust, damaged elements. The paint thickness on the body is measured with a body paint thickness gauge in several areas. On each element of the body, the check is made in the center and around the perimeter. The paint shades are compared. Only factory paint is perfectly uniform.
• Ground clearance should be uniform.
• In the luggage compartment, they lift the upholstery and see if there are no irregularities. The mounting bolts are firmly secured.
• The muffler is without holes, then the exhaust will be quiet. There are no cracks on its mounting. If the mileage of the car exceeds 100,000 km, the exhaust manifold will be brown in color.
• On the wheel disks there are no cracks, defects and chips, and the pads and tires are worn evenly.
• In the cabin pay attention not only to the upholstery, the condition of the seats. There should not be moisture under the mats. If there is, it may indicate the wear of door seals. Normally, they are elastic.
• The glass markings are the same. Then, most likely, they are all factory-made.
• The power windows should be in good working order.
• If there is an option for heated seats, air conditioning, check their work.

A test drive is conducted for the car, paying attention to such features:

• How the car starts and whether there are no noises and malfunctions in the motor. Noises are listened to.
• How the car feels when driving, whether it moves confidently, whether it is comfortable to drive.
• Evaluate how the suspension and braking system work. Whether there are jerks and beating of the steering wheel at the moment of gear shifting.

Choosing a second-hand car it is important to understand that transportation with mileage is not completely without defects. The main thing is that there are no serious problems with the key components of the car.