Used Car Buying Guide
If you’re buying a use vehicle, chances are you are already doing your research about the type of vehicle you have in mind. You may already have a fixed budget you are working around with and checking out its safety ratings and security features. Insurance costs vary from model to model, so you also have to consider those when getting some quotes.
You should also check the fuel consumption and emissions rating of the vehicle. When you’ve already made up your mind, learn more about the regulations of your state when it comes to buying and selling used cars, as well as finding out if there money owed on the car. As a reputable dealer of used cars, C4P can guarantee that the used vehicle you are purchasing is debt free.
What to Inspect
- Paperwork. Make sure that the VIN number, date of manufacture, engine number, and number plates are a match with those on the registration papers. Check if there’s a compliance plate on the firewall of the car. Ask if you should be receiving a certificate of roadworthiness from dealer/seller as may be required in some states.
- Car Exterior. Check the paintwork of the vehicle. Bubbles and colour differences may indicate rusting or an accident. Check for panels that don’t fit properly. Check if the doors, windows, boot, lid can be opened and closed properly. Don’t forget to check the tyres, including the spare! Uneven wear could mean a problem with the vehicle’s suspension or steering. Check under the car for oil leaks.
- Car Interior. Check the upholstery, trim, and carpets for signs of wear. Ensure the seatbelts are functioning well and good. Ensure that the seats are comfortable. Check all lights, equipment, and accessories are in good working order, ie. wipers, air conditioning, power windows, car radio, etc. Check under the carpet, there might be some signs of rusting. Check if the jack and toolkit are in good condition. Just in case, ask if the radio has a security PIN.
C4P’s resident mechanics will be glad to check everything under the bonnet from the dipstick and radiator to engine and oil filter caps. When you test drive the vehicle, check the brakes if it’s working properly, all the gears are smoothly transitioning up and down, and the steering wheel isn’t veering on one side when you ease your grip (this could indicate that there’s steering misalignment).
You can come up with your own laundry list of things you should check before buying a used vehicle. What’s important is you get your used car from a reputable use car dealer like Cars 4 Polynesians. We’re sure that our used cars will definitely fill out your tick box in your laundry list.
