Car buyers are three times more likely to buy used cars than new ones, which means knowing what to look for is essential.
Evaluating the vehicle is key to determining whether the vehicle is the right fit and of good quality. But with so many options available, it’s difficult to know what to do. Perhaps you’re unfamiliar with buying used vehicles and you’re looking for advice on the matter.
Sounds familiar? No worries, we’ve got you! Here are five things to include on your used car checklist.
1. Test the Lights
Whether you’re buying a used van or car, it’s important to test the lights. This is a sign of the vehicle’s electrical health, especially if the lights are dimming or flickering. Aside from the headlights, you should also test the brake lights, headlights, and fog lights for peace of mind.
Further, test the air-conditioning to check that it works properly. Know, that the fans should operate well at all speeds and shouldn’t be noisy.
2. Check the Tires
You should also take a look at the vehicle’s tires. Make sure you examine the treads and sidewalls of each tire to ensure there’s no damage. As a general rule, the U.S law requires a minimum 32-inch tread so use this as guidance.
3. Test the Brakes
When you’re at the used auto dealer, it’s important to test the brakes. Find a straight, quiet stretch of road where you can practice without worrying about being around cars. You should conduct a brake test to check its solid feel and be mindful of squealing or grinding sounds.
4. Examine the Exterior and Interior
During the buying process, check the bodywork for signs of rust. This will be most prominent on the vehicle’s wings, sills, and bumpers. You should also press on the affected areas and if there are cracking sounds, there may be corrosion underneath.
Further, examine the vehicle’s interior as it’s equally important. Test that the windows are working and check that there aren’t warning lights on the dashboard as it can signify an issue.
5. Check the Suspension
Push down on each corner of the vehicle to test the suspension. If it bounces and returns to the normal position, the shock absorbers are in good condition. You should also have a test drive to confirm your findings.
Once you’re happy with the vehicle, ask the auto dealer for its full-service history and receipts for any work carried out. And, if you’ve still got qualms, ask a professional mechanic to check the vehicle and it will save you a fortune in the long run.
Check this Used Car Checklist
Hopefully, after this article, you’ll use our used car checklist during the buying process.
There are many factors to consider when buying a vehicle such as testing the light and brakes for peace of mind. You should also examine the interior and exterior to check it’s up to par. Good luck with your search!
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