How to Inspect a Used Car Before You Buy It?

Used Car Inspection Checklist

If you’re searching for a used car and want to make sure you get the most reliable vehicle you can buy with your money, you’ve just found the information you’ll need to do so. Finding a trouble-free vehicle can be a difficult and time-consuming task, even for the savvy and knowledgeable shopper. With the following checklist, you’ll be able to learn more about what’s important and what to look out for when shopping for your next used car, truck or SUV. Keep reading to review the top three things you should check before buying a used car.

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3 Things to Check Before You Buy a Used Car

1. Check the exterior of the used car. View the used car you’re interested in on a sunny day so you can see dents and scratches. Other things you’ll want to check when inspecting a used car’s exterior include areas of rust, different paint colours, collision damage, repair work, windshield and window cracks and tire condition.
2. Check under the hood of the used car. When inspecting under the hood of a used car, there are certain things you’ll want to look for and check. First, look at the condition and cleanliness of the engine and other parts to really get a feel for how the vehicle was taken care of. Next, check the used car’s engine oil level and colour to ensure that is full and relatively fresh. Check all the other fluid levels under the hood of the used car to make sure they are filled up to the proper levels. Lastly, be sure to check the condition of all the hoses and belts. 
3. Check the interior of the used car. The last item on the used car inspection checklist is the interior. Spend some time sitting in the used car you’re interested in buying to really get a feel for it and what its condition is like. Inspect and check all the buttons and knobs to make sure they are all in good working order. Check out the condition of the seats and look for any stains or rips that may be of concern. The last few things you should check on the inside of the used vehicle is its electrical equipment. Things to inspect include headlights, turn indicators, the horn, seats and side mirrors (if they are electric), power steering, audio system, air conditioning, heater, power windows and locks and whatever else you can see that might look suspicious.

At Autohouse Kingston, we carry a large inventory of used cars, trucks and SUVs that offer you the reliability and affordability you’re looking for in a vehicle. Our vast selection of used vehicles is in great condition and competitively priced. Continue shopping for your next vehicle on our website, or contact us to schedule an appointment with one of our sales professionals if you need help finding the right vehicle.

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