How to inspect a used car to buy it

Cars are complex machines that when they work are the best inventions that man has made, but when they start having problems they can be our worst nightmare and even our biggest source of money. For this reason, if you are thinking of buying a used car, you should know how to inspect a used car to buy it.

one

First you must give a general overview of the car, to see if it has visual damage. Go around the car and check for damage (dents, scratches, broken windshield and rust). Then check the interior of the vehicle, check for stains on the fabric of the seats, in the tapizeria, if there are signs of oxidation.

two

Then check the tires, check the wear and depth of drawing of the tires, for this you can help you with a depth gauge. Check that the car has the spare wheel and also check its status.

3

Once you have checked the tires, you can check the condition of the brakes, take a flashlight and check the condition of the brake pads, they must be in contact with the disc, verify that they do not have a lot of rust, a little bit of rust is normal.

4

Take the opportunity to look at the brake disc, check that it is completely smooth and free from damage or scratches.

5

Check the lights, check all the lights both outside and inside, see that they all work correctly.

6

Check the fluids of the car, see that all the fluids are at their correct level. Check the oil level; Remove the rod and clean it. Re-insert the rod and check the marked level. Check the coolant level; Do it as in the case of oil, remove its rod and check the level. Check the level of brake fluid; It should be clear in brown or green light. Check the windshield fluid level.

7

If you can check the status of the battery, for this you will need a voltmeter, remember that the battery should not be below 12 volts. Check that there are no losses under the battery. And see that there is no corrosion in the cables.

8

If the car has electronic devices, turn them all on and check their correct operation (windows, insurance, seats, radio, CD player, windshield wipers, DVD, navigation system, defroster, etc.).

9

If you can, we advise you to start the car and go for a ride with it. Always do it with the windows up and with the radio off. This check should be used to listen to the noise of the engine, and above all to pay close attention to possible noises (bumps, knocks, squeaks) and vibrations on the steering wheel especially when braking.

10

Finally ask the owner of the car to let you see the car maintenance and revision book. Check that all revisions have been made correctly and in the timeframes and miles that you touch.

• The best option to buy a used car is to go buy it directly from professionals who are dedicated to the subject, they always offer you one or two years warranty on the car you are going to buy. Some example of these professionals can be; Valoare.com, quadis.es, ...
• If you are going to buy a used car from a private individual, it is better to take your trusted mechanic with you and have him advise you about the used car you want to buy.