Everyone dream of buying a brand new motor vehicle - isn't this one of the reasons, or even the most important reason why we work? Unfortunately for some the buying of a new car will stay a dream because not all of us earn that much to can afford a brand new one.
But, unfortunately a car is not a luxury but a necessity and those who cannot afford a brand new one, has to rely on a used motor vehicle. Sometimes the reality is that we save an entire life time to afford a used motor vehicle just to find out that the dream vehicle you bought is nothing but a dud - someone else's problem who got rid of it the moment it started with its problems.
The heart-breaking moment is when you would realize that you bought junk and don't have any money to fix it and to sell it would mean you won't be able to get something else - all your savings are tied up in this junk. But, do not despair; follow the following guidelines for a good deal on a used motor vehicle:
- Ask for the vehicle's service record. It could tell you whether the previous owner looked after it by servicing it regularly according to the manufacturer's specifications. Be on the look out for forged service records! This could happen! The service record would also tell-tale whether there were any major mechanical problems.
- Inspect the vehicle thoroughly for any signs of rust. The best places to look are the door hinges, under the bonnet and in the boot. Also, be alert to identify signs of trying to cover up rust by means of unprofessional paint patches.
- In the same breath, check for signs whether the vehicle was in an accident. Any sign of new spray-painting and new or additional welding spots could be an indication the vehicle spent some time in a panel-beating shop after an accident.
- Inspect the contents of the engine compartment to see whether the previous owner was looking after it - engine being dirty, battery terminals rusted and corroded, rubber pipes corroded, and signs of oil on the inside of the bonnet.
- Remove the radiator cap and start engine whilst cold. While idling check whether there are bubbles in the water. If so, the gasket could be defective.
- Stand at the back of the vehicle and ask somebody to start the engine. Blue or grey smoke emanating could be an indication that the valve-stem guide could be worn out. Remember, if there are lot of smoke the entire engine could be shot.
- Check the windscreen for cracks - later on it could be expensive to replace it.
- With the bonnet open and the engine idling, listen for any foreign noises, especially knocking and screeching sounds.
- Also test drive the vehicle with the radio off to listen if there are foreign sounds.
- Check whether the instrument panel with all its mechanisms are in working condition.
- Very important, whilst test driving the vehicle check that the heater and air-conditioner is working. This usually is the thing everybody forgets to test, only to found out later it is not working.
- Check the tires - the tread must still be within legal limits and check that the tread is still good on the outsides of the tire. Uneven tread could mean there may be problem with the alignment or even the shock absorbers.
- Check for any oil-leaks, not only under the car but also inside the engine compartment, especially on the engine block and where the spark plugs are inserted. Take out the dipstick and make sure the oil is fresh and not watery. Should the oil be thick and dirty it could also mean that the previous owner did not service it regular. Compare this fact with the service history.
Remember, there are very good and decent used motor vehicles but there are also very bad ones. Also, it is a fact that there are unscrupulous sales persons who would camouflage any big mechanical problems the lay-person would not pick up. There are even those who would forge a manufacturer's full service history.
It is your hard earned money - do not buy the first one you come across. Shop around and try to inspect all vehicles thoroughly. It would also be an investment to take the vehicle to an independent motor mechanic for inspection and evaluation.
It is your money; do not let anyone bully you into a deal you could regret later on.
Happy motoring!
