How To Find Good Used Cars

Finding Diamonds in the Rough: A Mechanic's Guide to Buying Used Cars

So, you're in the market for a used car? Excellent! It's a smart way to save money, but it's also fraught with potential pitfalls. This guide will arm you with the knowledge to navigate the used car market like a seasoned mechanic, helping you identify worthwhile vehicles and avoid costly mistakes. We'll focus on the key areas to inspect and the tell-tale signs that indicate a car is either a good deal or a money pit.

Purpose: Why Thorough Inspection Matters

Why spend time meticulously inspecting a used car? The answer is simple: prevention is cheaper than cure. A thorough inspection can reveal hidden problems that could lead to expensive repairs down the road. Think of it as a preemptive strike against future headaches. Beyond just avoiding costly repairs, a proper inspection allows you to negotiate a fairer price, knowing exactly what you're getting into. And, of course, safety is paramount. You want a car that's reliable and won't endanger you or your passengers.

Key Areas for Inspection and What to Look For

Let's break down the key areas to focus on when evaluating a used car:

1. Exterior Condition: More Than Just Looks

While aesthetics matter, the exterior condition tells a larger story. Look for:

Rust: A cancerous enemy of vehicles. Pay close attention to wheel wells, rocker panels (the area below the doors), and around the windshield and rear window. Surface rust is manageable, but deep rust is a serious red flag indicating significant structural degradation. Use a magnet; if it doesn't stick, there's likely filler covering rust.
Paint: Inconsistencies in paint color or texture could indicate past accident repairs. Look for overspray on trim pieces or around door jambs. Check for orange peel (a bumpy texture) or runs in the paint, which are signs of a poor quality repaint.
Body Panel Alignment: Check the gaps between body panels (doors, hood, trunk). Uneven gaps can suggest accident damage or poor-quality repairs. Sighting along the length of the car can reveal subtle bends or dents.
Glass: Look for cracks, chips, or excessive pitting. A cracked windshield can impair visibility and may be illegal.

2. Engine Compartment: The Heart of the Machine

This is where your mechanic skills come into play. Look for:

Fluid Leaks: Examine the engine block, hoses, and connections for signs of leaks (oil, coolant, power steering fluid). A simple pressure wash can hide these problems. Look for wet spots or stains, not just clean surfaces.
Fluid Levels: Check the oil, coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid levels. Low levels could indicate leaks or other problems. Note the color and consistency of each fluid. Dark, sludgy oil is a bad sign. Brownish coolant suggests rust in the system.
Hoses and Belts: Inspect hoses for cracks, bulges, or brittleness. Squeeze them to check for softness. Check belts for cracks, fraying, or glazing. A squealing belt indicates it's loose or worn.
Battery: Check the battery terminals for corrosion. A corroded battery might indicate a charging system problem. Look at the manufacture date.
Overall Cleanliness: While not a definitive indicator, a clean engine compartment often suggests the car has been well-maintained. A filthy, neglected engine bay can be a warning sign.

3. Interior Condition: Comfort and Functionality

The interior reveals how the car was treated. Look for:

Upholstery: Check for rips, tears, stains, or excessive wear. Consider the age and mileage of the car when evaluating wear and tear.
Electronics: Test all the electrical components, including the lights (headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals), windows, locks, mirrors, radio, air conditioning, and heater.
Dashboard: Look for warning lights illuminated on the dashboard. Investigate any lights that are on, as they could indicate a serious problem.
Smells: Pay attention to any unusual smells, such as mildew (indicating water leaks), burning oil, or coolant.

4. Underneath the Car: Suspension and Drivetrain

This requires getting low, but it's worth it. Look for:

Suspension Components: Inspect the shocks, struts, springs, and bushings for signs of wear or damage. Look for leaks around the shocks or struts. Bounce the car at each corner; it should rebound quickly and smoothly. Excessive bouncing indicates worn shocks or struts.
Exhaust System: Check the exhaust system for rust, leaks, or damage. A rattling exhaust can indicate a loose or damaged component.
Brakes: Visually inspect the brake rotors and pads for wear. Look for scoring or rust on the rotors. A squealing noise when braking can indicate worn brake pads.
Drivetrain: Inspect the axles, driveshaft, and differential for leaks or damage. Listen for unusual noises when driving, such as clunking or grinding.

5. The Test Drive: The Ultimate Litmus Test

The test drive is crucial. Pay attention to:

Engine Performance: Does the engine start easily and run smoothly? Does it accelerate without hesitation? Listen for unusual noises, such as knocking or ticking.
Transmission: Does the transmission shift smoothly and without hesitation? Listen for clunking or grinding noises during shifting.
Brakes: Do the brakes feel firm and responsive? Does the car stop straight? Listen for squealing or grinding noises when braking.
Steering: Does the steering feel tight and responsive? Does the car track straight? Listen for clunking or creaking noises when turning.
Overall Handling: Does the car feel stable and controlled? Are there any unusual vibrations or noises?

Decoding the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)

The VIN is a unique identifier for each vehicle. You can use it to obtain a vehicle history report (e.g., Carfax, AutoCheck) to check for accidents, title issues, and odometer discrepancies. This report isn't foolproof, but it can provide valuable information.

Real-World Use: Basic Troubleshooting Tips

Hard Starting: Could be a weak battery, faulty starter, or fuel system problem.
Rough Idle: Could be a vacuum leak, faulty spark plugs, or a dirty mass airflow sensor.
Check Engine Light: Get the code read! Many auto parts stores will do this for free. The code will point you to the general area of the problem.
Overheating: Could be a low coolant level, a faulty thermostat, or a clogged radiator. Never remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot!
Strange Noises: Investigate immediately! Ignoring unusual noises can lead to more significant problems.

Safety: Proceed with Caution

Working on cars can be dangerous. Always use proper safety precautions, including:

Eye Protection: Wear safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes from debris.
Gloves: Wear gloves to protect your hands from chemicals and sharp objects.
Jack Stands: Never work under a car supported only by a jack! Use jack stands to support the vehicle safely.
Disconnect the Battery: Disconnect the negative battery cable before working on any electrical components.
Proper Ventilation: Work in a well-ventilated area when working with chemicals or exhaust fumes.

Remember, this is a general guide. Each vehicle is different, and a professional mechanic can provide a more thorough inspection and diagnosis. However, with the knowledge you've gained here, you'll be well-equipped to find a good used car that meets your needs and budget. Happy hunting!