Pre-Owned Cars - Top 11 Things To Check Before You Buy One!

Protect yourself by looking for problem areas such as:

1. Make sure the frame is not bent and is solid. Check to see if there are any oil leaks. Make sure the block and head are not cracked. Check the belts to see if they are frayed. Confirm the engine is not burning oil by looking at the exhaust.

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2. Verify the transmission is in good shape by test driving the vehicle and making certain the transmission fluid is the correct color and consistency. Make sure the transmission and drive shaft are solid and okay.

3. Check the cooling system by seeing if the vehicle over heats. Look for any leaks from the radiator. Make sure the water pump is working correctly.

4. The alternator, generator and starter need to work properly. Make sure the battery has a good connection and does not leak.

5. Do a manual check of the brakes. Try stopping the vehicle abruptly. Does it pull to the left or to the right when the brakes are applied? Does it have a firm pedal when pressure is applied? All drums, rotors and hoses should be in proper working order. Do the warning lights work?

6. All fluids should be full including power steering fluid. Does the vehicle pull to the left or to the right when driving? Power steering belts should not have any cracks and should not slip wheel the steering wheel is turned.

7. Check under the vehicle for any leakage of water, oil and gasoline.

8. Check to make sure all of the gauges and controls are in proper working condition. Is the air conditioning cold? The heat hot? Do the defrosters and rear window defogger work? Does the radio function well?

9. Tires should all be the same size and inflation. Wear patterns are a strong indication of inflation and alignment. Look to see if there is much tread depth. Try to observe any other damage. Don't forget to look at the spare as well.

10. Make certain all wheels are matching with no obvious damage. Look for repairs, cracks or flat spots. Make sure all of the lug nuts are present.

11. Look for discoloring or unusual smoke coming from the tail pipe(s) while the engine is running. Examine the muffler to see if it is solid and tight.

Pre-Owned Cars - Top 11 Things To Check Before You Buy One!