Buying a Used Car: How to Avoid Getting a Lemon

It can be tough to know what you’re getting when you buy a used car. Having a trusted mechanic to go to with questions or a car inspection will make a big difference but there are also a number of things you can pay attention to yourself. Before buying, you should be able to get enough information to feel comfortable, as well as having time to inspect and drive the car yourself.

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Get as Much Information as You Can

Certain information should be made available to you before you purchase a used car. And if an answer doesn’t sit right with you, take note. Look for red flags from the seller, such as glossing over an issue you see, avoiding answering a question, or giving an answer that doesn’t quite make sense. Otherwise, look for the following information before making a final decision.

Read the Buyer’s Guide in the Car

Every dealer should have a buyer’s guide stuck in the window of any used car being sold. This should come with key information about the vehicle’s history, as well as any information about a warranty or lack thereof that comes with the purchase of the car. In fact, the buyer’s guide overrides any provisions in the sales contract, so be sure that both are adjusted if changes are made to your contract before purchase. If you’re buying directly from an owner, this won’t be available to you, as it’s only required of car dealerships.

Look up Records for the Car

You can also look at the vehicle’s records before purchasing it. This should show any reported accidents and major repairs as a result of accidents, plus any recalls that have been issued and addressed. This can indicate whether the car may still have damage to the suspension as a result of an accident or maybe residual flood damage. However, if an accident or natural disaster wasn’t reported to the previous owner’s insurance, some things may be left out.

Look Inside the Car

There are a variety of things to pay attention to in the interior of the car. Frayed seat belts could indicate a frontal impact accident at higher speed, which also likely resulted in more damage than a fender bender. Look at the dashboard, carpeting, headliner, and seats as well. If they look overly worn or cracked, take note. Additionally, if you smell mold or mildew, it’s likely there is flood damage that may or may not be on the car’s record.

Take a Look Under the Hood

While you may not know everything you’re looking at under the hood, bigger issues should be somewhat apparent. Look at whether key parts like the engine and battery look overly greasy or dirty. There will be some from use, but at first glance, they should not look too greasy or have much corrosion. This will depend in part on the age of the car you’re looking to buy. You can also check the fluids in the car and look for wet spots that could indicate a fluid leak of some sort. These can all end up being pricey car repairs.

Pay Attention to Steering

Both while driving and idling, you can check the steering for potential problems. Listen for any clunking, as well as any slack or resistance when steering. Any of these could indicate a potential problem with the steering system.

Get an Initial Vehicle Inspection Done Before You Buy

You should also investigate whether you’re allowed a pre-purchase inspection or whether you can bring the car back within a certain period with no penalty. Having a trusted mechanic take a look at the car is the best way to feel sure you won’t be caught off guard with a major repair right after buying. AAMCO Bay Area offers a multi-point inspection that will ensure every essential system is working optimally in your new used car.