There are many reasons to buy a used car, especially if you’re on a tight budget. It makes financial sense, but finding the perfect used car isn’t easy. If you’re not careful, you may regret your decision sooner than you think. One of the main things you should look for before buying a used car is to check if the car has been in an accident.
Look at the Paint Job
Many used car showrooms will use lighting to make you believe the car’s paintwork has no flaws. But, this may not be the case. When buying a used car, you need to carefully inspect the paintwork in a well-lit environment that’s away from the sun. If you come across dicey paint patches or rusty or unpainted surfaces, you need to be wary about the condition of the vehicle.
Check For Replaced Parts
Replacing car parts is not cheap, which makes it common for owners to only replace the parts that have been damaged after an accident. The most effective way to figure out if the car has been in an accident is to check the airbag cover, which can show signs of breakage or damage as they break open upon deployment. Also, check the headlights and tail lights as these are the most likely to get damaged in an accident.
Does the Car Drive Straight?
Whether it’s a brand new car or a second-hand car, test drives can help you figure out what issues the car may face down the line. If the car can’t gain traction while on the road and you feel like it’s shifting to one side, it’s alignment may not be right. If you’re having issues keeping the car straight, you can ask for a realignment to be done. If the owner doesn’t agree to this, it’s time to look for another vehicle.
Check the Tires Wear and Tear
To see how the car has been driven around, check the tires. If the suspension alignment is off, the tires are often impacted by the unevenness. This is a serious issue as the tires get the impact of a vehicle that isn’t properly aligned, which can lead to uneven wear on the tire’s surfaces.
Also Look For:
- Gaps in the door panels
- Welding marks
- Mismatching or missing screws and fasteners
- Visible Creased Panels
