Buying a used car can be a good financial decision, but it does come with a risk. Some used cars are in great condition while others haven’t been maintained as well. Before you buy a used car, make sure you check these things to ensure you’re getting a reliable car.
Body and Exterior
The first thing you should do is take a 360 look around the car. Used cars may have acquired a few dings and bumps. If there’s been body work done on the car, you might be able to tell. Professional body work will be hard to spot, but if something was done incorrectly, parts will not fit and the paint may not match.
Undercarriage and Exhaust
While you’re looking at the exterior, make sure you take a look under the car. A quick glance underneath can show you if the car has a lot of rust. That’s a sign it was in either a lot of snow or in a flood and wasn’t maintained. There is a potential for water damage if you see this.
Glass and Lights
Look over the windows and windshield, ensuring you don’t have to replace anything immediately after purchasing. The lights on the vehicle should be clear and bright, and working. If it looks like the lights are foggy and full of moisture, they could be full of water.
Tires
Used cars will have used tires, but you don’t want some that need to be replaced right away. Make sure you have at least half tire tread and they are the right size for the vehicle.
Interior
Another major deciding factor in purchasing a used car is the interior. If the dash and seats have cracks through them or are severely stained, then the vehicle wasn’t cleaned often and not maintained.
Air Conditioning and Heating
Before you purchase a used vehicle, make sure the heat and air conditioning systems work. These are things that can be fixed later, but they can be expensive right after making a purchase.
Are You Ready To Purchase A Car?
If you’re in the market for a used car, keep in mind that Dobbs Tire & Auto Centers has a pre-purchase checklist to help you determine if the used car you’re looking at is right for you. To learn more about our auto repair services, or to schedule an appointment at one of our locations in Missouri, contact us today!