DIY Network

Buying a Used Car From "Ask DIY" episode ADI-712

advertisement

Figure A Figure B Figure C

Q: Can you give me tips on what I should look for when buying a used car?
A: (Trisha Hessinger. DIY Automotive expert) Whether you're shopping on a car lot or answering an ad you saw in the newspaper, there are some things you should always check:

1. Check the body of the car. Look at the paint and the overall appearance of the body. Do all the parts match? If not, the car could have been in a collision. Look down the side of the car -- do you see a rippling effect? That could also mean a collision. When you tap on the vehicle, is there a difference in the sound at different points? That could mean that there's filler in there -- another possible sign of a collision. Check all the jambs and seams where body parts come together. Look for any signs of rust. If rust gets started, it can become a really big problem.

2. Check to see if there is even wear on the tires (figure A). Uneven wear could simply mean that the car is out of alignment -- or it could mean a bent suspension, which can be a costly repair. Look at the spare tire as well!

3. Take a friend with you when you shop. Have him stand outside the car when you test-drive it. Is there any smoke coming out of the exhaust? If so, what color is it? Whether it's white or blue, it could mean costly engine repairs.

4. Look under the hood (figure B). Make sure the engine is cold when you check fluid levels. You can learn a lot about a vehicle by looking under the hood: for instance, you can see what kind of care the owner has given the car. Check the oil, the brake fluid, even the transmission fluid. Just looking at the color of those fluids will give you a lot of valuable information. Is it dirty-looking? Has it lost its translucency? If so, it hasn't been changed in a while -- a sign that maybe it hasn't been given a lot of care. Check belts and hoses when the engine is cool. Any fraying or cracking? That could signal a future repair that will come out of your pocket if you buy the vehicle. Check the battery -- many have dates on them that will indicated how long they've been in place.

5. Check under the car and look for leaks. Any dampness or puddling (figure C) could indicate leaks -- and more expensive repairs.

6. Look at the inside of the car -- there's quite a bit you can tell from this step. Check the general condition of the interior: Is the carpet and upholstery stained and/or worn? Does the condition of the interior match up with the odometer reading? Take a whiff: a musty or moldy smell could indicate a leak -- or the car could have been in a flood. Enlist the help of your friend again to check out the lights, turn signals and brake lights. Then go through every electronic device in the vehicle: windows, door locks, radio, air conditioning, heater, power seats (in all directions), dashboard (is it worn or warped?).

7. Take the vehicle for a drive. Pay attention to the way the steering wheel feels. Does the vehicle try to pull to one side or the other? How about when you apply the brakes? Test-drive with the radio off to listen for squeaks and rattles. All of this can give you an indication of the vehicle's wear and tear.

Q: Does it matter what kind of motor oil I put in my minivan?
A: Yes, it does matter, and here again the owner's manual can come in handy. It can tell you the weight of oil necessary and whether you have to change the oil seasonally. It will be up to you to decide whether you want to use a regular oil, a synthetic or a blend.

Q: What kind of damage can road salt do to a car?
A: In a cold climate, this can be a concern, but generally you have to worry only about an older car. If you're buying a used car and want to check for salt damage, check under the car for rust, because that's where it will start. With newer cars, it isn't so much of a concern thanks to protective practices such as galvanizing.

RESOURCES :

How Cars Work
Author: Tom Newton
ISBN: 0966862309
Publisher: Black Apple Press