Buying a used car is a significant investment, as you will trust the car to get you from point A to point B without a hitch. Although an auto inspection alone is not a substitute for a professional inspection, it will save you money by weeding out the good options from the ones that may not be suitable. Once you’ve found a car that you think is right for you, you can have a professional inspection done.
The first thing to check
Start by parking the car in a well-lit area where you can first inspect the exterior and look at the condition of the paint and bodywork. Open all doors to make sure they open and close easily. Pay attention to anything that may be missing from the car.
Tips for inspecting a used car from the outside
The most important aspect of outdoor safety is your tires; use your tread gauge to make sure the car has roadworthy tires, and from there, look at the hubcaps to see if they all match. Inspect all panels on the vehicle’s exterior to ensure they match and are in good condition. Watch out for dents, scratches, drops, and overspray on the casing.
Tips for checking the interior of a used car
Since safety is paramount, the first thing to inspect inside the used cars in austin is the airbags; press down to ensure they are still in and check that they are not tampered with or stuck where the airbags should be. Check the seat belts for wear and make sure they work correctly. Remove all car seat covers to check the condition of the seats, and be sure to sit on each one to check your comfort.
Ensure all electrical functions are in good condition, including power windows, locks, mirrors, sunroof, and stereo components; your CD or cassette comes in handy.
Engine inspection tips
If there are any significant defects in the engine parts, it can cost you a lot of extra money. Start by checking the engine for any leaks, damage, or fluid leaks, do this by inspecting the top and bottom of the car; this is where a flashlight comes in handy. Check all fluids in the engine.
Have your assistant start the car and check for smoke or fluids coming from the engine compartment, then walk to the car’s rear to check for heavy smoke from the car’s tailpipe. With the engine running, pay attention to strange sounds or knocks coming from the engine.
Wheel alignment tips
After a test drive in the car, be sure to check the wheel alignment. It can be done by walking up to the car and looking under it. Have your assistant drive the car slowly away from you in a straight line. All wheels must be in line; otherwise, the vehicle may need work or have been damaged in a previous incident.
Once you have done all the above, take photos or videos of the used cars in austin. Before you leave, review your notes on the notepad and ask the owner any questions you think are essential. In this way, you will have a future vehicle reference.
