What to Look for When Buying a Used Car
Buying a used car gives you the opportunity to choose from a wide variety of vehicles at different prices, mileage levels and equipment configurations.
But how do you know whether a particular used car is worth considering?
The key is knowing what to look for.
Whether you're shopping for a used car in Crestwood, IL, or visiting a dealership elsewhere in the Chicago area, this checklist can help you evaluate a vehicle
Check the Exterior
Walk around the entire vehicle before driving it.
Look for:
Scratches
Dents
Rust
Paint differences
Cracked lights
Windshield damage
Uneven body panels
A used vehicle doesn't have to be perfect, but you should understand its condition.
Inspect the Tires
Look at all four tires.
Check for:
Tread depth
Uneven wear
Cracks
Damage
Different tire brands
Uneven tire sizes
Uneven wear can sometimes indicate alignment or suspension issues.
Check the Brakes
During the test drive, pay attention to how the vehicle brakes.
Watch for:
Vibration
Pulling
Grinding
Squeaking
Unusual pedal feel
Brake components are wear items, so understanding their condition is important when evaluating an older used vehicle.
Look Under the Hood
You don't have to be a mechanic to perform a basic visual inspection.
Look for obvious:
Fluid leaks
Damaged hoses
Corrosion
Loose components
Unusual odors
If something looks unusual, ask questions.
Check the Interior
Sit in every seating position if possible.
Check:
Seats
Seatbelts
Windows
Locks
Air conditioning
Heat
Radio
Navigation
Backup camera
Heated seats
Other available features
Make sure the features important to you actually work.
Check the Dashboard
Before and during the test drive, pay attention to warning lights.
If a warning indicator appears, ask the dealership about it before moving forward.
Review the Vehicle History
A vehicle history report may provide additional information about the vehicle's past.
Remember that no history report should be treated as a replacement for inspecting the actual vehicle.
Ask For a Carfax History Report.
Take a Test Drive
Drive the vehicle long enough to get a feel for it.
Pay attention to:
Steering
Acceleration
Braking
Transmission
Suspension
Engine noise
Road noise
Ask About Maintenance
Ask whether maintenance records are available.
A vehicle with documented maintenance can give you additional information about how it was cared for.
Consider an Independent Inspection
If you're seriously considering a vehicle, you may choose to have an independent mechanic inspect it.
This can be particularly helpful for older, high-mileage or specialty vehicles.
Shop Used Cars at Champion Motorsports
Champion Motorsports maintains a changing inventory of used cars, trucks and SUVs in Crestwood, Illinois.
Ready to start shopping? Browse the current Champion Motorsports inventory and find a vehicle that fits your needs and budget.
https://www.champmotorsports.com/
