Things to check when buying a used car

If you are on the lookout for a used car, there are some great deals to be had, but buying a used car requires far more attention to detail than just picking a new one out of a showroom. That’s primarily because the used car business in India is largely unorganized and there are many unscrupulous dealers as well as sellers looking to make a quick buck. However, here are 10 things you could check to ensure that you get a used car that is completely worth its price tag.

Paperwork

The first thing to check when buying a used car is its paperwork. Check for the number of past owners, ownership transfer forms and updated insurance. Ask for the service history of the vehicle as it will help you figure out how the car has been maintained and if there are any discrepancies in the seller’s claims. If the car has been converted to run on gas or if the colour has been altered, make sure these are endorsed in the registration certificate.

 Bodywork

Always inspect a used car in broad daylight. Look for imperfections in paint on all the panels, which could be indicative of some repair, especially if the seller has not mentioned it. You could also carry a small magnet with you and run it over areas of the metal bodywork that you think have been tinkered with. Many local workshops use metal filler paste to iron out dents in the panels and the magnet won’t stick on such areas.

Electricals

Turn on the ignition and check if all the lights are working in the car. Check the wipers and windshield washer for proper functioning. If the previous owner has installed any accessories, check their functioning as well. Also look at the condition of the headlamps and tail-lamps. High power bulbs could make the headlamp reflector dull.

 Running condition

Start the car, preferably when the engine is cold and check for any unusual noise. Excessive white or black smoke indicates engine problem. Listen for any whining noise from the engine as that could point to an impending, expensive bearing failure.

Interiors

The roof-liner should be clean and not smell bad. Look at the condition of the seats and seat covers, if any. Check all the plastic panels for signs of scuffing and cracks. Depending on the kilometres run, the steering wheel, clutch pedal and gear knob will show co-related wear.

Chassis

Take a look at the chassis and hidden areas of the car. Most cars have small dotted indentations along the insides of the door frame, boot and bonnet, which are a part of the manufacturing process. These should be intact. Corrosion could mean expensive repairs later.

Suspension

Make a cursory check of the suspension. The car’s stance should seem normal at standstill—not listing to one side or squatting down at the front or back. Push down firmly at each corner of the car and ensure that the car does not keep bobbing or emit creaking noises.

Ride and handling

Take a test drive and listen out for any unusual noise. Feel the steering and check for any abnormal vibrations. Check the brakes. The clutch should not be too hard and should engage smoothly. Gears should shift without any fuss in a manual transmission or there should not be too much lag in an automatic. Any issues with the clutch or transmission could be expensive.

The author is an automotive journalist. The views are his own.

OLMdesk@outlookindia.com