Buying a used car isn't easy; but it can give you the advantage of getting a vehicle that you like for a cheaper price than buying new. However, it still presents a series of risks, one of which is ending up with a lemon. You need to have a sharp eye and due diligence to emerge from your search with a great vehicle that you'll be happy with and will serve you well.
Here are tips to avoid a lemon:
1. Check the title history: write down the VIN number (vehicle identification number), and use it to buy a title history of the vehicle. Services such as CarProof Vehicle History will give you all the background information on the vehicle: if it's been in accidents, where it's been, if there are any current liens on the vehicle, etc.
2. Be mindful of flood states and provinces: Thinking of a buying a car, say, from Calgary? You might be buying one that was in the flood of 2013. If you're buying from the US, you need to also be aware of various flood states. It's advised to look in states and provinces that have little history of floods to avoid this risk all together. If the car has been damaged by a flood, move on--unless you're a car repair specialist and think the car's salvageable and a good deal.
3. Get a mechanical inspection from a reputable place: This can be one of the last points of negotiation. If the dealer objects, either press your point and do it anyway, or move on--there might be reasons for this reaction. Take it to either a mechanic you know and trust, or to a reputable (and even corresponding) car maker service department. Some places will actually rate various aspects of the car on a scale, clearly indicating problem areas.
4. Request service records: A proud, careful owner will have kept all service records and receipts. Request to see any/all service records--this can be one way of knowing that the car's been well maintained. If there are no service records, that can be a major strike against choosing to purchase that vehicle.
5. Research consumer reports: Prior to narrowing down the cars you want to look at, take your price-point, search all the vehicles within it, and then check consumer reports on all of them. Many consumer reports can be done free online. If you roll up on a used car lot, and see one that looks good that has evaded your search, run a consumer report search on your iPhone.
6. Look for overspray: Don't be emotionally attached to the vehicle--with sharp eyes and objectivity scrutinize every detail of the body of the car for any signs of paint overspray on the trim or the wheel wells that was poorly masked. This can show signs of quick body work that you will need to ask further questions about: Was it in an accident? How long ago? What happened to the vehicle? Such over spraying may also be to cover up any rust.
7. Check oil and other fluids: As with #4, request any records of oil changes. If the owner is a careful one, he/she will have all the receipts from oil changes and other services maintained on the vehicle. Look for an oil change reminder tag in the top left hand corner of the windshield--this will reveal if the owner has been mindfully having the car serviced. Lift the hood and check the oil level: if it's low or unusually dark, then it probably hasn't been serviced well. Scan also the antifreeze and coolant tank. If things look cruddy or mirky or empty, then it's not a good sign--might need to move on.
8. Tire treads: Tire treads can be a tell-tale sign of good or poor maintenance. Wear along the treads can show signs of misalignment. Check also the air pressure: if the tires are not well-inflated, that can be a sign of poor maintenance and leaking. Check for a matched set of tires. If one is different, ask about why.
9. Ask the following critical questions:
- Why are you selling the vehicle?
- How long have you owned it?
- Where/Who did you buy it from?
- What's the mileage?
- Can I see the VIN number and your identification?
- Do you have a used vehicle information package? (mandatory in Ontario)
- Has anything been replaced or repaired on the vehicle?
- Are there mechanical problems I need to know about?
- Can I take it for a test drive? If the owner is hesitant, invite him/her with you.
- Can I take the vehicle for an independent inspection?
10. Avoid vehicles with modifications: Be leery of vehicles that have been super-up with all kinds of gadgets and accessories, especially those to improve performance. It's more work to check on the condition of those improvements, and they can be tell-tale signs that the car has been driven carelessly.
11. Don't fall for the granny car: There are plenty of those on the market: "lady driven," or "non-highway driven," as if that's a selling feature--don't be fooled. The car may look mint, but if it hasn't been driven on the highway or on long trips, then the engine oil hasn't been hot enough to burn off condensation, which can lead to acidic build up in the engine and a host of problems.
12. Really shop around: Don't buy the first car you see on a car lot, and even reputable car dealers (Honda, Toyota, GM, Ford) can sell you a lemon, or a car that's been involved in an 'undisclosed' accident. Go online; check other provinces and states (if you want to add a little adventure and travel); research consumer reports; and really hunt around.
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