Used Car Buying Checklist
With the average price of new vehicles rising to record levels, it’s never been a better time to purchase a used vehicle. However, you want to make sure that you purchase a quality used vehicle that is worth your money. That’s why it is important that you properly inspect any used vehicle before you make a purchasing decision.
At Auto West, we have created this helpful checklist that will allow you to properly check any used vehicle.
Pre-Inspection Checklist
Before you step inside any used vehicle, you want to take a look at the vehicle’s record to make sure it is worth a further inspection.
Milage
You want to make sure that there is not excessive mileage on a vehicle relative to its age. For instance, a 3 year old vehicle should not have more than 60,000 miles on it. Milage is a clear indicator on how hard the vehicle has been driven over a certain period of time.
Now, there are certain brands that are more reliable than others. For instance, a Toyota Camry with high mileage can be more reliable than many other brand vehicles with less miles on them. Just be sure to note the mileage before you continue on with the inspection.
Smog certificate
In Michigan, all used vehicles must have a smog certificate. Therefore, you will want to make sure that the used vehicle has passed its most recent smog inspection.
Vehicle history report
Has the vehicle ever been in a flood? Has the vehicle ever been totaled? These events can radically affect the value and the drive quality of the vehicle. Getting a Carfax report can let you know if the vehicle has been in any accident Also, a car history report can verify mileage and ownership history.
Maintenance records
How well has the vehicle been maintained. A used vehicle that has up-to-date maintenance records is going to be a better choice, even if you have to pay a little more. A well maintained vehicle may save you from costly repairs.
What should you look for in maintenance records? Be sure that the vehicle has received an oil change every 3,000 to 7,500 miles. Also check for consistent filter changes (Cabin air filter, engine filter, oil filter, and fuel filter). Finally, make sure that the vehicle has received its interval maintenance services.
Legal ownership
Make sure that the person or dealership who is selling the used vehicle, has the title for the vehicle. If you purchase a vehicle that is not properly titled, then you may have issues registering the vehicle with the state.
Exterior Inspection
After you have completed a pre-inspection checklist, it is time to do a “walk around” and check the exterior of the vehicle. Here is what you should prioritize during your exterior inspection.
Wheels & Tires
Since the vehicle’s tires maintain contact with the road, they should be carefully checked. Be sure to check the tread depth level of each tire. Also, make sure that all of the tires match. After that, inspect the side wall tires for any signs of damage such as cracking or bubbling.
After you have checked the tires, be sure to inspect the wheels. Make sure all the wheels match and that they are free of damage.
Panel gaps
Next you will want to check the panel gaps. If you notice any inconsistent panel gaps, then the vehicle may have been in an accident. Be sure to compare any panel gap inconsistencies with accident reports from the car vehicle report. Some of the most common areas for vehicle accidents include front and rear bumpers. Pay special attention to these panels.
Lights
Check all the exterior lights to ensure that they are not damaged and that they are working properly. This includes the headlights, taillights, fog lights and any aftermarket lights. If the lights are dim, this may not be an issue with the lights themselves. Dim lights could be an indicator of a weak battery.
Paint color
Depending on the age of the vehicle, the quality of the paint color will differ. What you want to look out for is any uneven wear in the paint. This could be an indicator that a repair was made on the vehicle.
Scratches and dents
Also, be sure to check for any scratches and dents. Door dings and minor scratches shouldn’t be a “deal breaker” since they could be easily repaired.
Glass
Finally, be sure to check for any chips or cracks on the glass. This includes all the passenger glass windows, the rear window and the windshield.
Interior Inspection
After you have inspected the exterior, you will want to step inside the vehicle and check out the interior. At this time, you will also want to turn on the vehicle.
Odors
Right when you step into the vehicle, check if any type of odor immediately hits you. Do you smell mold? The vehicle may have been flooded. If you smell tobacco, then the previous owner may have been a smoker.
Instruments
When starting up the vehicle, make sure that all the instruments are working properly. Be sure to check for any warning lights that come on when you immediately start up the vehicle.
Infotainment System
Check the infotainment system and make sure that the screen is working properly. If the vehicle has a touchscreen, check the response time after touching certain areas of the screen.
Audio System
Turn on the audio system and make sure that you are getting clear reception from each speaker. You should be able to change the balance to get a better feel for each speaker inside the cabin.
Upholstery
You will want to check the seating and look for any signs of excessive wear. Also, check for any cracks or breaks on any leather seating surfaces. Of course, older vehicles will have more worn upholstery. However, vehicles that are less than four years old, should have excellent upholstery.
Driver controls
Make sure that all the driver controls are working properly such as the steering wheel controls, bluetooth, paddle shifters, and any buttons. If you notice any non-function controls, then the vehicle may have been in an accident.
Mechanical Inspection
While the vehicle is idling, you will want to check out the mechanical parts of the vehicle. Even if you are not a “gear head,” you should be able to check simple mechanical features of any used vehicle.
Fluids
Used vehicles require several fluids in order to function properly. Be sure to check out the engine oil level as well as the coolant, transmission fluid, and brake fluid.
Noises
Do you hear any strange noises while the vehicle is idling? Be sure to listen for any rattling, squeaking, knocking or screeching. If you hear these noises coming from the engine, then you may have to contend with major repairs if you purchase the vehicle.
Shifting
Operate the shifter while the vehicle is in idle. Be sure to check for any knocking or unusual noises to ensure that the transmission is in good condition.
Warning Lights
Be sure to check for any warning lights to come on while the vehicle’s engine is operating. Any amber or led lights on the dashboard needs to be addressed before you purchase the vehicle.
Drive Test
After you have inspected the interior of the vehicle, it is time to take the vehicle for a drive test. This is one of the most important parts of any used car inspection. Here is what you should check while driving the vehicle.
Steering
Pay attention to the steering. Do you hear any usual sounds coming from the wheels? This could be a wheel alignment issue. Also, if the steering is stiff, then there could be an issue with the power steering including old power steering fluid.
Acceleration
Be sure to check how well the vehicle accelerates. Even if you are not purchasing a performance vehicle, you want to make sure that the vehicle experiences smooth acceleration. Any hesitation during acceleration could be an issue with the transmission or the engine.
Driving noises
Be sure to listen to any unusual noises while driving the vehicle. For instance, do you hear anything strange as the vehicle switches gears? Do you hear any rattling when the vehicle is at highway speed? Be sure to make note of any noises.
Climate controls
Be sure to check the climate controls while the vehicle is on the road. Is the air conditioner blowing cool air through all the vents? Are there any strange noises while the climate control system is on. Also be sure to check the heater as well.
Quality Pre-Inspected Used Cars in Plainwell, MI
When you want to find top quality used cars in the Grand Rapid, MI area, be sure to visit us at Auto West GR. Each one of our vehicles has undergone a complete interior, exterior, mechanical, and driving inspection. You’ll find a big selection from top brands including cars, trucks, SUVs, and minivans. Contact us today for a test drive.
