Buying a used car:
Buying a used car can be very daunting. If you are a mechanic, or know a mechanic you’re a step ahead. Otherwise we would suggest that you follow these steps. If the seller gets frustrated, or is avoiding questions, it’s possible that something is not right, possibly with the car, so be sure to check everything carefully. We’ll start with the Exterior checks:
- You want to be checking for signs or repainting, if they have had repainting, they could be trying to cover up damage to the bodywork!
- The body paint should be the same shade all over the car
- The doors and the boot should open and close smoothly, also examine the rubber seals for paint
- Check the gaps between the panels – these should be the same width. If they are not, the car could have been repaired after damage.
- Checking the suspension – Press down carefully on the car at each corner and release – the car should return smoothly to its normal height – if it bounces before settling then it could need some work.
- Check for rust this might just show as bubbling paint work – but be sure to check everywhere, particularly areas regularly in contact with water
- It’s a good idea to get a tread depth gauge. The minimum legal tread depth is 1.6mm across the width of the tyre, but more is better. Also make sure the wear is even as this can be an indicator as to if it has other problems (with suspension or tracking alignment) Be sure to check the tyres and the spare, if the car comes with one.