How to Inspect a Car Before Purchasing

So, today we will be discussing how to check a car for damage before buying.  Also, I will talk about how to inspect a car for damage from an accident or flooding.

Exterior

1. Check all sides when it is parked on a flat, level road without being driven for a couple hours.
2. Also, only check it during the day because at night, damages can be disguised.
3. When looking for damages, inspect the size of the gaps between panels and see whether the paint matches throughout the car.
4. According to Consumer Reports, there is a magnet test to find where the car has been fixed.  The magnet is only attracted to steel car surfaces not the plastic used to fix the damage.
   The windows are also another thing to look at.  A small crack is not a huge issue, but can be used to lower the price.
5. Examine the lights, and make sure all of them illuminate properly.

Interior and Water Damage

1. First, smell the car for any water damage.
2. Touch the floor under the mats and see if it is damp.
3. Check every seat for damage and test the front seats to see if they move.
4. Turn the key to make sure that all the warning lights turn on before starting the car.
5. Test that the air conditioning and heat work while the car is on.
6. Look at the roof and see whether there is water damage near the sunroof.
7. Under the mat in the hatch,  inspect for rust.
8. For further details on how to check, Click Here.

Test Drive

1. Listen for any weird or abnormal sounds from the engine on startup.
2. Try all gears if manual transmission and take it on different road surfaces and speeds.
3. Check that there is no shaking or other irregularities when driving.
4. Watch the heat gauge for the engine and make sure it doesn’t run too hot.
5. Apply brakes to make sure car stops straight and does not pull to one side.
6. For further information about test drives, Click Here.

 

 

 

 

 

There is always a possibility the car you are looking at was flooded at one time.  Above is an example of how a previously flooded car could look like after being cleaned and put on the market.  A way to ensure that the car is a good purchase is to take it to your mechanic first.  Do not allow the seller to tell you that they have already checked it and that you cannot take it to your mechanic.  If he or she is skeptical about letting you drive it to the mechanic, either have YourMechanic come to the location, or have the seller drive it and meet you there.  With the price of only about $100 for a full inspection, it is worth every penny.

Also, research the VIN (found under the windshield) on Carfax to find out about possible reported damage.  Now, this isn’t always perfect, but it will give you a good sense of the history of the car.  For a checklist of things to do when inspecting your hopefully, future car, Click Here.  Good Luck!