Six Things To Check For When Buying A Used Car

Posted on: 24 September 2015

Buying a used car can be a great way to get the most bang for your buck. You want to be sure that you take the time to make sure that everything is in proper working order before purchasing the vehicle. Below is a guide that walks you through six things to check before purchasing your first used car.

Check the Windows

Make sure that all of the windows work properly using the buttons on the driver's door. If there is a window lock feature, be sure to test it to ensure that you can keep children from rolling down the windows when you do not want them to. Also, try lowering each window with the switch located on each door to ensure that the windows can be operated individually by each person riding in the vehicle when needed.

Check the Radio

Taking a long road trip without a working radio can make the ride a bit more difficult than it has to be. Take the time to try the radio during the test drive to ensure that none of the speakers are blown and that the radio scans properly.

Check for Leaks

Look under the car to make sure that there are no visible leaks under the car. Leaks can be an indication that a hose is leaking or there is a hole in one of the reservoir holding fluids your engine needs.

Check the Air Conditioning

Check to make sure that the air conditioning system in the car works properly, even if you're buying it during the wintertime. You want to be sure that you can stay cool during the dog days of summer, and a working air conditioner will be essential.

Check the Tires

Be sure to check the tread on all of the tires on the vehicle to make sure that they are not totally worn. Also, look at the edges of each tire to see if one outer edge is more worn than another. This could be a sign that the alignment on the car needs to be adjusted before you drive the car off of the lot.

Check the Locks

You need to be sure that the locks on the car work properly, as well. Take the time to see if the locks lock the doors automatically when you put the car into drive or if you need to lock them manually with the lock on the driver's side door.

If all of these things work and you feel that the car drives smoothly when you take it for a test drive, you can feel confident that you are purchasing a car that is worth purchasing. If any of these things do not work, do not buy the car. Require the car dealer to have the issues fixed before you even consider purchasing the car.

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