When it comes to buying a car, more and more customers are turning to the used market. Second hand cars are no longer the bangers they once were. Instead, modern cars will last up to ten years without so much as a hiccup. If you get your hands on a reliable two year old car, you’ll save a fortune, and enjoy years of good service.
However, buying a used car is still somewhat of a tricky business. Yes, it’s much cheaper than buying brand new, but it comes with all sorts of hidden secrets. Is the mileage legitimate? Was the previous owner a boy racer? These are the risks you have to weigh up. But, there are plenty of ways to get to the bottom of things. When you buy a used car, make sure you perform these vital checks to ensure its quality.
Check the service history
A car’s service history is the documentation that proves its health. It should list, in detail, every service and every repair. It should date the intervals between oil changes and detail the results of every MOT test. If you’re worried about reliability, pinpoint the manufacturers with a strong reputation. For example, a used Volvo or Audi will come with a reputation for reliability. The service history will strengthen this in your chosen car. It will give you a full account of how the car has been treated over its life. You can expect one or two services, but if there are any major repairs on there, it could spell trouble.
Check for mileage tampering
One of the oldest tricks in the book is rewinding the mileage counter. It makes the car seem like it has been used less than it has. This practice occurs less these days as mile counters are typically digital. However, if there’s an analogue counter, look for any signs of damage around the dial. The service history should also note the mileage at every service. Check that it lines up with what is currently shown.
Check under the bonnet
The second hand car may look as clean as a whistle, but the important part is under the bonnet. Don’t be scared to open it up and take a look inside. The first thing to notice is the smell. If there is a hint of burning oil or charcoal, run a mile! Next, look for any leaks in the fluids. Check the oil, coolant and brake fluid tanks. Finally, use the dipstick to check the level and condition of the oil. It should be a healthy brown colour and well above the lower limit.
Inspect the tyres
The tyres can tell you a lot about the vehicle and how it was driven. If they are well worn, it shows a general lack of care for the car. Check the pressure too; it should fall within the recommended limits. Take a good look at the wear and the markings. A little wear is, of course, natural. But, note any uneven damage or strange marks. It could suggest a bent wheel alignment or an underlying suspension problem.
These four checks should give you a good sense of the car’s condition. If you’re satisfied, then congratulations, you’re ready to buy your second hand vehicle!
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