Buying a used car is a process that should never be taken lightly. Unlike new vehicles, used cars have a lot going on and you will need to check quite a number of things before you take that money out of your pocket and replace it with a car key. When you are looking for a used car sold by a dealership or a private owner, you can start asking about the vehicle’s history over the phone. There are details that might just make you move on to the next option or drive you to the dealership in person to confirm and buy the vehicle.
This is how you should check a used car
Image source: amazonaws.com
Here are used car FAQ that you need to ask before buying a used vehicle.
How Many Kilometers/ Miles Has The Car Been Driven?
If the vehicle has a mileage of higher than 20,000 miles (32,100 kilometers) or lower than 5000 miles (approximately 8,000 kilometers), you need to ask why. When the mileage is on the higher side ask about the trips because it is better if the trips that contributed to the high mileage are longer as opposed to shorter trips. Low mileage is good but sometimes it does not guarantee good care and it also might be as a result of tampering.
How Is The Vehicle Equipped?
Whether the ad has a list or not, you should ask about features such as the antilock brakes, transmission, A/C, air bags, power windows, seats, mirrors, sunroof, cruise control, sound system, upholstery material and any other key features. You also need to confirm that all these features are present in the car before you buy it.
Is The Car In A Good Condition?
Ask the seller this question and pay attention to what they say. If they talk about things you could never have thought about, then it could be that they are genuine enough to sell you a good car.
How Are The Body And The Interior?
If you did not talk about these elements when talking about the condition of the vehicle, then it is important that you cover them well.
Has The Car Been In An Accident?
If the car has ever been in an accident whether minor or major, ask about the extent of the damage, the shop it was repaired in and the cost of the repair. Minor scrapes should not worry you, but it is a point of concern when the vehicle has been involved in a major crash.
Are There Service Records?
You are looking for a well maintained vehicle and service records will show you just how good the car was cared for.
Has The Vehicle Been Recalled?
Ask if there was any safety recall work done or if it still needs to be handled
Too high mileage is not good, but too low mileage could mean speedo has been tampered with
Image source: www.autofocus.ca
Is The Owner The First And Current Owner?
A car that has not changed hands over time is easy to know about the history unlike a car that has been owned by different people.
Why Is The Car Been Sold?
Look for logic explanations rather than interesting stories. If the answer is evasive, you should think twice. Always ask for service records and any other evidence that points to proper care.
