Buying a good used car is usually a practical and financially wise way to acquire a better vehicle. Here are some things to do and look for while you consider a new-to-you car:
What kind of car do you like? Do you want a two-door or a four-door car? Do you want four or six cylinders? Do you want automatic or standard? Will you be carrying a lot of people or transporting building supplies?
Have you checked out Consumer Reports?
If you're buying a car directly from the owner, does this person have the maintenance record? Is it a one-owner vehicle?
If selecting a car from a dealer, is the dealer reputable? Whom do your friends or relative recommend?
Check the wear on the brake pedal and driver's seat. Does it seem to match the odometer reading? Some odometers do not have a space for the hundred thousand mile spot, so a car that fits this description could read 42,598 miles when in reality the engine has gone 142,598 miles.
Check the overall condition of the car. Look for rust or other types of deterioration.
Check for oil leaks. Checking the pavement doesn't really work because oil on the ground may have been from another car. Look at the inside of the tail pipe. If there is a wet, sooty condition, the car is burning oil. Open the hood and look for leaks.
Check for misalignment of doors, hood, and trunk. Are the doors difficult to close?
While you have the hood open, check for cracks in the belt and hoses.
When you take it for a drive, note vibrations and noises while turning or going over bumps.
Take it to our favorite mechanic and put it on a lift. Check the underside, wheels, etc. A good purchase inspection costs between $15 and $25 and is worth it.
Finally, don't expect a car with 80,000 miles on it to drive like a care with 10,000.
Have fun! Drive Safely!