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I need a reliable used car, but I have no experience or knowledge when it comes to the internal workings of a car, so I need help.

What should I look for in a used car to know that it won’t break down on me next week? What should I avoid? What price ranges are ideal for a good used car?

Thank you.

3 Comments »

1. 

   All cars are different.

   Basic things to check or look for are…

   Actually SMELL the oil on the dipstick. If it smells burnt dont buy this car. If the oil is brand new then look at the overall condition or the engine.

   Look under the car and see if there is any spots where oil has leaked out onto the ground. Then while looking at that car look under the one next to it to see if there is oil on the ground. Some dealers will move their used cars around the lot or put them on grassy areas to hide the oil leaks … just check the ground carefully.

   Pull out the transmission dipstick and smell it as well. Make sure the fluid is pink in color … if it is dirty brown … move to the next one!

   Open the radiator cap. Look underneath it. If it looks "scummy" then definitely DO NOT buy this vehicle cause it has a bad head gasket.

   Look under the OIL FILL cap … if it looks "scummy" same thing … dont buy.

   Look at the brake pedal. If it is worn down … guess what … whoever had it before was on the brake a lot … be careful!

   Tires … if the tires are worn down … then estimate the cost of newer tires at $75.00 each … that $300 real soon. Take a penny and put it in the tire tread with Lincoln’s head down … if the tread covers up his head then you have a lot of wear left … if not … replacement tires soon.

   Ask if you can take the car to YOUR mechanic (even if you dont have one) and see what their response is. A good mechanic will charge about $60.00 to inspect a vehicle for you. If you are serious about a car then this might be money well spent.

   Check out the seats and make sure they are not all broke down.

   Check out all the lights … headlights, tail lights, brake lights, turn signals, interior lights, dash lights.

   test drive the vehicle and give it a test like you would normally drive a vehcile. If you drive over rough roads daily then put it through the same test. Do be skimpy this is an investment you are making.

   If you hear or feel something unusual … beware.

   Feel comfortable sitting in the car. Have the salesman explain everything to you even if you know what does what. This will tell you if he/she knows what they are talking about or if they are just moving you along.

   Price … it is all subjective … if you feel like you got a good deal then you did. If you dont … the you didnt.

   Dont be afraid to negiotate pricing. Offer them a very low price and see where they come back at … then offer them another lower price … eventually you will get to the price that you want or think if correct. If not … move on to another vehicle or dealer.

   Dont buy a car because it is shinny or has chrome wheels. Anyone can clean a car. A clean car last longer but does not make it run at all.

   Good luck to you …

   Comment by david a — August 9, 2009 @ 6:39 pm

2. 

   walk a round it look down sides for dents and discolor look at tires for uneven wear look under it for wet spots on the ground and the motor.. open the hood and check all the fluids any low no go… crank it and listen to how it starts fast and easy good any ticking or knocking bad.. drive it 30 minutes checking how it takes off and braking how it steers any question dont get it check all the switches and buttons to see whats is working or not after driving it you recheck what able to check you never buy one you have questions about and never buy one knowing your going to have to fix something to make it better…. 10 yrs old or less 1000 and up get a name brand car better something that has been made for a few yrs ford chevy nissan better choices….

   Comment by kelly_f_1999 — August 9, 2009 @ 6:39 pm

3. 

   you can take a friend with you to check out cars you want to buy
   just return the favor by picking up lunch or buy a few round of drinks, it’ll be worth it, to buy a good car this way

   just make sure your friend knows carz

   Comment by mikedrazehero — August 9, 2009 @ 6:39 pm

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