What to Look for When Buying Used Vehicles

A well-maintained used car can be a good deal for people who don't want to spend thousands of dollars on new cars that immediately drop in value after purchase. Savvy consumers have a used car checked out by a mechanic to determine the condition of the vehicle. However, there are several things buyers can look for themselves to size up a vehicle's condition.

Exterior

A thorough check of a car's exterior can reveal body repairs that may indicate the vehicle was involved in a collision. A Consumer Reports article titled "How to Spot a Lemon" says a Certified Automotive Parts Association (CAPA) sticker on a vehicle body panel indicates the panel has been replaced. Paint spray in the wheel wells or on chrome or rubber trim also is a sign of body repairs. A misaligned door, hood or trunk may have resulted from a collision followed by improper repairs.

Interior

The appearance of a car's interior can reveal some things about its history. Extensive wear on the brake and accelerator pedals may be an indication that you're looking at a vehicle with high mileage, even if the odometer reading indicates it's a low-mileage vehicle. A mildew smell or traces of mud under the seats or carpet may mean the car has been in a flood, and it might have electrical problems as a result of being waterlogged.

Fluids

Look under the vehicle to check for fluid leaks. Examine the hoses under the hood as well to ensure they're not leaking. Stains on the lining of the hood may indicate a hose is or was leaking. Fluid leaks can cause a vehicle to malfunction, and the condition of the fluids can reveal whether a problem already exists. For instance, Consumer Reports recommends removing the dipstick from the engine to check the condition of the oil. The engine may be in poor condition if the oil looks gritty due to infrequent oil changes. A damaged engine also will emit metal particles into the oil.

Warning

In a test drive, take note of whether a car moves in a straight line on smooth pavement. A vehicle that consistently needs to be steered back to the center of a road may have a bent frame or suspension problem, which could lead to expensive repairs. Listen to the sounds the engine makes because they could reveal mechanical problems. A vehicle may have a faulty transmission if the engine revs when the car isn't accelerating.

Considerations

Consider buying a vehicle with a warranty that lasts at least 6 months, so you won't be immediately responsible for all potential repairs after the purchase. Certified used vehicles get mechanical inspections at some dealerships, and they usually have warranties that cover major repairs for a limited time. Edmunds, an automotive publisher, notes on its website that certified warranties can add $500 to $2,500 to the price of a used car. Another option is to buy a car that's less than 3 years old because it may still be covered by the manufacturer's warranty. New cars usually have warranties that remain in effect for at least 3 years or 36,000 miles.