If you simply cannot afford a new car, why not just buy a used one? There are so many used car models that are on sale in the market today but experts in used cars sales recommend key things to find out before you buy a used car. Here are some of them:
- Always get a Carfax: A car fax will tell you if a vehicle has ever been damaged. If you’re looking at a car fax and see where it’s been damaged and then repaired. Then the car has a diminished value and you can learn more about diminished value in Kentucky by visiting the Harper Law Co website. The Harper Law Co is a Shelbyville Attorney that can advise you in situations where a vehicles diminished value is in question.
- Start from the exterior of the car. Make sure that the car is level on the ground. This is important to assess any damage on the tires and to find out any sagging parts. View the car from a distance just to make sure.
- As you assess the exterior of the car you will now be able to check the car’s paint job. As you view it from afar, look for areas where there are obvious changes in the tint and color of the car. Another way is to closely inspect the discoloration with your hands. Any rough or uneven edges would mean that there were scratches, dents or spot paint repairs that were done on the area.
- Possibly the most important area that you need to check in a used car is under the hood. Check for dents, rust and any signs of damage. If you are new to inspecting car engines, you may ask the service of a car repair technician instead. The car’s Vehicle identification Number or the VIN is found inside the hood along the fender. The number is printed on a decal and if this is missing surely the fender has been replaced.
- As you open the doors of the car, check for the door siding, glass windows, locks and handles. Find out if each one is in good working condition. The windows must move up and down when the switches are pushed and every window should be operated from the driver’s side as well.
- The car seats are next. Check for rips, stains and other kinds of damage. Look under the seats and check for the chair controls, any damage on the actual seat and don’t forget to check the seat belts. If the car has removable car seat covers, remove these and inspect the actual seat.
- The carpets, sides, trunk and containers found in between the seats should be checked for any water damage, cracks and leftover items from the previous owner. Check if the radio and air conditioning unit are working.
- If the car has a security system or an on-board computer, see if all these are working accordingly.
- Check the car’s oil through the oil filter cap. Check for any foam formation or residue on the inside of the gasket would mean that it has a leaking head. Be sure to consult this so you can save time and money in oil and gasket replacement in the future.
- Be sure to test drive the car to assess the car better. Any noises could mean that there is something internally wrong with the vehicle which could be a very costly repair in the long run.