Used Car Cautions??

[iMage]

Hey guys,

I'm planning on buying a used car ('01 Integra) from private party. I've never purchased a used car before so I was wondering from those with some experience, what things I should look out for. I know I should probably get a Carfax report with the VIN of the vehicle, but what else?

Anyone have certain questions I should be asking him or documents to get? Also, does anyone know of a good place to take a used car to get it inspected (around the California Bay Area - South Bay)? Thanks again.

 

[Rilescat]

take it to a trusted mechanic for a checkup.

Even little things can cost a good amount.

 

[wake]

Drive before you buy and listen for any strange sounds, take it on the highway and make sure it feels smooth.

 

[StageLeft]

Get the VIN checked definitely. Also bring it to an acura dealership and pay the mechanic an hour's labor so that he can check it out.

 

[Wuffsunie]

Ask if it's been in any kind of situation where it's had body work, and then look over for sections that have been repainted just recently. Make sure that only one key is needed to open all doors and trunk. As for the rest, take to a trusted mechanic for a look over, or bring along a mechanic friend if you can.

 

[iMage]

Thanks for the responses guys -- now does anyone know of a "trusted mechanic" in the south bay? I'm also going to call an acura dealership and see how much a look over like that would cost.

 

[Eli]

IMO, I would not buy a used car unless it came with all service receipts.

It's the only way to know that the previous owner took somewhat good care of it. Chances are, if they were meticulous about the maintenance, they didn't redline it at every green.

 

[Zenmervolt]

Originally posted by: Eli
IMO, I would not buy a used car unless it came with all service receipts.

It's the only way to know that the previous owner took somewhat good care of it. Chances are, if they were meticulous about the maintenance, they didn't redline it at every green.

Or they did redline it at every green and that's why they are so meticulous about the maintenance.

ZV

 

[Eli]

Originally posted by: Zenmervolt

Originally posted by: Eli
IMO, I would not buy a used car unless it came with all service receipts.

It's the only way to know that the previous owner took somewhat good care of it. Chances are, if they were meticulous about the maintenance, they didn't redline it at every green.

Or they did redline it at every green and that's why they are so meticulous about the maintenance.

ZV

Shh!!!

Ok, fine. Buy a used car w/ all the receipts from the Estate of a 90 year old woman.

 

[Pastfinder]

go to the Kelly Blue Book website and look into the car's history...might find that it has been in an accident before, ect.

 

[StageLeft]

Originally posted by: Eli
IMO, I would not buy a used car unless it came with all service receipts.

It's the only way to know that the previous owner took somewhat good care of it. Chances are, if they were meticulous about the maintenance, they didn't redline it at every green.

A LOT of cars unfortunately don't come with receipts. Mine didn't because it was a lease-auction deal. AFAIK the place I bought it had had no receipts for any of their cars. I did the VIN deal and paid (actually I made them pay, and got a print out) the local nissan dealer $60 to do a thorough check of the car.

One can save absolutely a ton of money buying used. Unless they're buying Acura or honda - those cars retain resale value to such a degree that it would have to be a very good deal for me to consider buying one used. Spend $200/more and get it new instead

 

[iamwiz82]

check the tires for strange wear patterns

listen for any strange noises while driving slowly with the window down.

Test to make sure the ABS works(if it has it).

I normally check the condition of the valve cover(how much gunk is in there.

Put it on a lift and look under it. Check for wet spots, strange scrapes, and any damage.

I pull out the carpet near the rear fenders to make sure there was never any damage that was not claimed by insurance.

Make sure all the electronic gadgets work.

Check for play in the steering wheel

Any strange pulling while driving

Drive the car over a fairly bumpy railroad crossing and see if any strange rattling is heard

Make sure all the lights work, including side markers

Look for any signs of previous damage

Check the spark plugs for any signs of problems




There is a ton more, I just cant think of it right now.