06/10/2024
How to Buy a Used Car with Confidence
Used Car Checklist #1: Verify all Service Records
A huge part in questioning how to buy a used car the right way is making sure that you know the car's history. Ask the dealer to print out the vehicle history to see all service records:
car interior
Oil and filter changes.
Part replacements.
Tire purchases.
Tune-ups.
Previous accidents and damages
Used Car Checklist #2: Review the Interior
Turn the key to first position. Do all warning lights on the dash turn on?
Start the vehicle. Do all warning lights on the dash turn off?
Leave the car idling while inspecting the vehicle and go back at the end to check the temperature gauge on the dashboard – it should be in the middle (not in the red).
Check the left and right turn signals.
Check the function of the windshield wiper fluid.
Turn the windshield wipers on to different speeds, then off.
Turn on the heater.
Turn on the A/C. A super important feature for driving in AZ.
Adjust both side view mirrors.
Roll all windows down and back up.
Check the sunroof’s functionality.
Check the stereo (radio, AUX, Bluetooth, etc.).
Check the function of all seat belts.
Lock and unlock while looking at each door for function.
Open and close every door to ensure function.
Adjust the seats – if automatic, check any electrical function with seat movement.
Pop the hood and the trunk, leave both open.
Check for a spare tire and jack. You definitely don't want to be caught without those!
Used Car Checklist #3: Take a Look Under the Hood with the Engine ON
Open the hood while the car is running and leave it idling for a while.
Look around for any drips.
Listen for any loud clacking or grinding. An important tip to remember when learning how to buy a used car is to always, always, always keep an ear out. You don't want to end up paying for a big problem because you weren't listening carefully enough!
Used Car Checklist #4: Take a Look Under the Hood with the Engine OFF
grandson-repairing-the-car-with-his-grandfather
Check the date on the battery – the average battery lifespan in AZ is 4 years.
Fluid levels – all of the following have indicators that let you know if it’s full or needs more. Use a rag or paper towel to clean the dipstick. Then, insert and remove it to get proper readings:
Oil
Transmission fluid
Steering fluid
Brake fluid
Used Car Checklist #5: Review the Exterior
Check for sun fading.
Check the paint condition of the car. Are there chips or scratches? Was it repainted?
Inspect the alignment of exterior panels for a uniform gap. This can help you see if the parts have been replaced.
Check the overall condition of the tires.
Examine the tread depth of the tires – got a penny? Insert the penny (head down) into a few of the tire’s tread grooves. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, then the tires need replacing.
Are the tires mismatched? If so, this is not recommended unless you plan on immediately replacing them. Different tires have different speed ratings, tread life, and traction.
Check bottom of vehicle for rust.
Used Car Checklist #6: Take it for a Test Drive
steering wheel
Turn off the radio to be able to listen for noises the entire time.
Go over speed bumps to listen for noises and see if the suspension feels worn. A warning sign is that the car will bounce up and down several times when going over bumps—you’ll feel like you have less control over the vehicle.
Drive at both residential and freeway speeds.
Brake firmly from a higher speed and listen for noise.
The Brake pedal should feel firm and not lower towards floor when holding it down.
Drive in reverse and other gears if applicable.
Accelerate through a corner and listen for clacking to indicate bad CV joints.
After the drive, look at temperature gauge to make sure it’s within proper range (not in the red).
Finding out how to buy a used car is more simple than it seems. It's really just making sure there are no red flags and giving yourself the green light to buy. 😉
Used Car Checklist #7: Ask A Lot of Questions
man-signing-car-buying-paperwork
Whether you're a first-time car buyer or a pro, inspecting a used car and making a car buying decision can feel overwhelming. Don't be afraid to ask the dealer lots of questions and research further on how to buy a used car. Double and triple checking can help save you from a few headaches down the road. 🙅
We hope this checklist has helped you learn how to buy a used car! And if you're ready to get pre-approved for a used auto loan, we do that too. Hope fully that helps a car is a huge investment to have to sink a lot of money in!!!!
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