Important Points Before Buying a Used Car

I have been considering getting a used car but I have heard many stories about people getting scammed by used car salesmen. Has anyone here ever bought a used car? What are the important things one must check before purchase? How is the price determined etc? Any pointers would be great.

Tip 1 - Changing the actual mileage also, called "Clocking" on the Dashboard.

Published:  | Submitted by Siya S | permalink
Changing the actual mileage also, called

I have been a victim of clocking and I had to pay the price for such nuisance. My only tip is to watch out for clocking.

"Clocking is the illegal practice of winding back the odometer on a high–mileage car to increase its apparent value and asking price. Every 1,000 miles removed increases the value substantially." 

Tip 2 - Tyres of the Car

Published:  | Submitted by Aarne Lindroos | permalink

Check the tyres of the car properly as those are costly, judge the remaining life of the try by measuring the pattern height from the surface of the tyre

Tip 3 - Find indications of dent under the hood

Published:  | Submitted by Hasan Shirazi | permalink

Open the hood of the car to find out any possible indications of dents due to accident rust or damages occurred due to collision. Make sure the car's Vehicle Identification Number also known as Chassis Number is in original condition and not stamped.

Tip 4 - Inspect the Engine for any possible leakages

Published:  | Submitted by Reinko Kuiper | permalink

Under the hood check the engine joints for any possible leakages which are indicated by dark brown oil spots on the engine body.

Tip 5 - Check the floor of the Car

Published:  | Submitted by Akbar Zareh | permalink

Remove the carpet under the footrest and see if its clean or rusty, if you find it rusty don't buy the car at all or else you will make a very wrong decision.

Tip 6 - Car Computer Errors

Published:  | Submitted by Lee Breedlove | permalink

Some cars have computerized system through which the functions of the car are controlled. While you start the car engine look for some errors or notifications by the computer as they may cause you problem onwards.

Tip 7 - Check the paint job of the car

Published:  | Submitted by Ashok Bahety | permalink

Before buying a used car check the paint job of the car by running your finger on the end and joints to find out the residue of the masking tape which indicates repaint or look for rust spots and dents.

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Category: Cars & Automobile | 10 years ago

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