What To Look For When Buying A Used Car
A practical inspection list for a used car: tires, brakes, fluids, panel gaps, electronics and history.
Outside
Look down the body panels in daylight for ripples and mismatched paint. Check panel gaps. Look at tire brand and tread depth on all four — mismatched or worn tires are an immediate cost. Check the glass for chips.
Inside
Run every window, lock, seat adjustment, the A/C and the heat. Test the infotainment, backup camera and Bluetooth. Smell for damp — it can indicate a water leak.
Under the hood and on the road
Look for leaks, check fluid condition, and start it cold if you can. On the drive: brake firmly in a safe spot, listen for noise over bumps, and make sure it tracks straight with your hands relaxed on the wheel.
History
Ask for the vehicle history report and read the ownership and title sections, not just the accident line. Ask what was done to the vehicle before it hit the lot.
Next step
Questions about your own situation? I'm at 2 Bloomfield Ave, Paterson, NJ 07503 — call or text 862-238-9160.