Buying secondhand cars is a convenient cost-cutting solution for most. You bypass the initial depreciation of brand new cars, and most of the best models are within reach. But beware of common flaws in second hand cars before you act. A brand new shiny car does not guarantee all the facts behind the shine. Without looking, you could end up paying for humongous bills that have been essentially in your arms in order to run away.
Below is a list of the most common issues customers will likely encounter and what to do. Vigilance is your best insurance against a poor purchase.
- Engine Troubles
One of the most expensive issues with any car is engine-related. While purchasing an older car, listen carefully for strange noises like knocking, ticking, or whining on your test drive. Also, look for oil leaks under the car or in the vicinity of the engine.
A large red flag is also heavy exhaust smoke. Black exhaust is an indication of excessive burning of fuel, blue exhaust is an indication of an oil leak into the combustion chamber, and white exhaust is an indication of a coolant leak. They are all clues to expensive repairs down the road.
- Transmission Issues
Repair of transmission is always quite expensive. Hard or rough shifting is among the common problems in used cars which might be a sign of transmission deterioration. Check during the offering test drive how smoothly gears shift.
If the car is hesitant, jerks, or clunks as it shifts, that's a red flag. Inspect the transmission fluid at all times; it should be bright red and have a sweet odor. If it smells burnt or is dark, it could be a problem.
- Brake System Wear
Your safety is involved by working brakes, so proper servicing is of maximum importance for them. During a test drive of a second-hand car, squeeze the brakes slowly at various speeds. Look for grinding through listening or verifying vibrations by pass-through through the brake pedal. See if your car tilts when decelerating.
If there is a problem, the brake pads, rotors, or perhaps the entire system must be repaired. Brake work isn't always as expensive as engine or transmission repair but must be done and can't be avoided.
- Electrical System Problems
Most new vehicles have a tremendous amount of electronics in them, ranging from the entertainment and windows all the way down to sophisticated computer sensors. One of the more frustrating general problems with older vehicles is likely to be the electrical system.
Check all the basics headlights, brake lights, turn signal, power windows, locks, and sound system. Check also that dashboard warning lights illuminate momentarily at start and then disappear. If there is one warning light that stays on, that usually is not good and may possibly have to be scanned for diagnostics.
- Suspension and Steering Problems
It will ride and behave like an automobile in a different manner. While driving on the test drive, observe if the ride is too rough or if you hear clunks that you believe you hear crossing bumps.
You also need to check the steering. When the steering wheel is loose or the car will not remain in a straight path down the road, there may be steering rack or alignment problems. These are issues that will affect the safety of driving and are very expensive to fix.
- Rust and Body Damage
Surface rust can look like a cosmetic, minor issue, but rust can weaken the structural integrity of the vehicle. Check very well around wheel wells, door sills, and underneath the vehicle for rust.
Also, look for mismatched paint or unusual body panel openings that could be a sign the car was in an accident. Always inquire if the car has a clean title and think about purchasing a vehicle history report.
- Air Conditioning and Heating Problems
Although not a safety concern, a broken climate control system can make car travel unbearable. Check the heater and air conditioner prior to purchase. It is costly to repair a broken AC system if compressors or evaporators need to be replaced.
A good deal is not just hearing the sticker price, but also that the car is mechanically sound.
These are some simple steps to protect yourself:
Order a Pre-Purchase Inspection: Having the car inspected by a reputable mechanic before you buy it can save you a couple thousand dollars in the long run.
Ask about Repair History: Repairs will likely pay for themselves in the long run by preventing larger issues.
Get a Vehicle History Report: Use Carfax or AutoCheck reports to find out if the car was ever part of serious wrecks or had a salvage title.
Test Drive with Caution: Don't just drive around the block. Test drive the vehicle on the highway, on curves, and in various environments.
Trust Your Instincts: Get out if something is off or if the seller gets too aggressive.
Smart Tips for Buying a Reliable Used Car
Buying a used car can be the smartest money move you ever make if you're smart about it. Being aware of the traps of used cars makes you the boss to spot issues in time and rule out cars that cause more misery than they're worth.
Good vision, patience, and a willingness to walk away if it all doesn't come together will be rewarded. Primarily, you're searching for a good, solid car that you can drive and enjoy for years with minimal in the way of surprise and costly repairs.
