Auto Insights

Buying a Used Vehicle: A Checklist of Tips

There are a number of smart reasons for buying a used vehicle. It’s a great way to save money and avoid the depreciation costs commonly associated with purchasing a new vehicle. At the same time, however, the cost benefits of a preowned vehicle can quickly vanish if you end up with an automobile that has hidden problems.

That’s why it’s important to do some research if you’re in the used vehicle market. For example, the following characteristics are indicators that a car might not be as good as advertised:

• Excessive wear and tear in the interior, regardless of what the odometer says
• Damp, musty odors (this might indicate leaks in the windshield, weatherstripping or heater core. 
• Cars that ride lower in the front as compared to the back (this might indicate worn springs)
• Vehicles that bounce when pushed (this might indicate worn shocks and struts)
• Tires with worn outer edges from the front end
• Clanking noises when the vehicle is in gear
• Repainted body panels
• Motor oil that is not full (this might indicate that the engine is leaking or burning oil)
• Knocking and ticking sounds that increase as the engine speed increases
• Transmission fluid that is black or brown
• Banging, grinding or squeaking noises while driving

If you notice any of these characteristics in a used vehicle that you are thinking about buying, consider looking to a different seller or dealership for your purchase. Buying a used vehicle with potential problems will only lead to increased maintenance and repair costs in the long run.

Also, do not be fooled by the mileage on the odometer. To see if the instruments have been tampered with, look for fingerprints or scratches inside the plastic covering. Mileage numbers that don’t line up properly on the odometer offer another fraud clue. This may be a crude attempt at getting you to buy a vehicle that has far more miles (and problems) than the low mileage would suggest.

VTC Insurance Group is Here to Help 

For additional vehicle purchase guidance and auto insurance solutions, talk to the professionals at VTC Insurance Group. You can reach us at 248.828.3377 or visit vtcins.com.

This blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice.