When buying a used car What should I look for?

Used car checklist summary

Engine. Check for leaks, oil level, head gasket condition and exhaust smoke.
Gearbox and clutch. Feel and listen to the smoothness of the gear change, and test the clutch biting point.
Bodywork.
Wheels and tyres.
Interior.
Test drive.
Documents.

How do I know if my car needs a head gasket?

Making sure the engine is cool, remove the oil cap from the engine. If you can see white or light brown grime with a sludgy consistency then you are probably witnessing / diagnosing a blown head gasket – well done! And also, walk away!

What’s the best month to buy a used car?

January, February, and December are the three best months to buy a used car, in that order. According to iSeeCars, in general, late fall and early winter are good times to purchase a used car with a deal.

Should I get a mechanic to inspect a used car?

You should try to have the inspection performed by a mechanic with whom you’ve already built a relationship. And ideally, the inspection should include a test drive over a route that includes hills, bumps and potholes to reveal suspension problems and engine performance issues.

How much does it cost to have a mechanic inspect a used car?

Chain repair stores, dealerships or independent garages offer some type of a pre-purchase inspection and the average labor cost for an inspection is approximately $100-$250. Included in that price, consumers can expect a good overall mechanical and safety inspection of the vehicle – test drive included.

Should I let a buyer take my car to mechanic?

you should DEFINITELY let them take it to a shop. FYI, a car dealer can not refuse you the right to get a pre-purchase inspection at the mechanic of your choice so long as you are willing to pay for it.

What does a mechanic look for when inspecting a used car?

Exterior

Body condition. Check each body panel and the roof, looking for scratches, dents, and rust.
Glass. Look carefully at the vehicle glass to make sure there are no cracks or large, pocked areas.
Suspension. Walk around the car to see if it’s standing level.
Lights and lenses.
Tires.

How do you negotiate a used car deal?

More negotiating tips for buying a used car

Keep it light. Don’t make it personal.
Avoid bare-knuckle negotiators. Don’t even begin negotiating with a used car salesperson who attempts to bully or intimidate you.
Negotiate slowly and repeat the numbers.
Don’t start until you’re ready.
Be ready to walk.

Can you trust a dealer inspection?

One thing is for sure: You can’t trust a private party or dealer to tell you the truth about a vehicle’s history and its problems. Even if the car is still under warranty, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get it inspected. Major problems will likely need costly repairs after the warranty expires.

How do you test drive a private car sale?

Test drive

Take the buyer’s contact details when arranging for them to come and view/test drive the car – name, address and phone number.
Ask the buyer to show you their driving licence if they’re expecting to test drive the car.

Should you let someone test drive your car for sale?

People avoid selling their own cars because they don’t want to deal with strangers. If you screen callers carefully, the test-drive and sale will be safe and smooth. When you’re selling a car, arrange to meet a prospective buyer in a public place, such as the mall parking lot. Don’t turn over your keys to a stranger.