Buying a used vehicle can save you a lot of money, but it also comes with risks. In expensive transactions like these, you may be wondering how to know you’re not buying a lemon — or in other words, a dud. Fortunately, there are clear signs to watch for when buying a used car that can save you lots of money and potential disappointment. Let’s identify these warning signs and walk you through the key things to watch for, helping you make a smart choice.
Look for Signs of Previous Damage
When shopping for a used vehicle, always inspect the car for signs of past damage. Damage can point to an accident or poor care by the previous owner. Check for mismatched paint, uneven gaps between panels, or rust spots. These could mean that the car was involved in a collision and repaired poorly. Rust is another big warning sign. While small rust spots may not seem serious, they can spread quickly and lead to expensive repairs.
Inside the car, examine the interior for unusual wear and tear. Are the seats or dashboard cracked? Is the carpet stained or worn? These could signal that the car hasn’t been cared for properly. Additionally, pay close attention to the condition of the tires. Worn or uneven tires may indicate alignment problems or poor maintenance, which could point to larger issues with the vehicle.
Check for Leaks and Fluid Issues
Another key step is to check for leaks and fluid issues. Leaks can be a sign of serious engine or transmission problems. Before starting the car, look underneath it for any puddles or wet spots. If you see oil, transmission fluid, or coolant on the ground, the vehicle likely has a leak that could cost you later. Leaks are often hidden, so it’s important to inspect the engine closely. If the engine appears oily or greasy, this could be another sign of trouble.
It’s also smart to check all the fluid levels before buying the car. Low or dirty fluids might mean that the vehicle has been neglected. Engine oil should be dark brown or black, but not gritty. Transmission fluid should be red or pink and should not smell burnt. Coolant should be clean and free of debris.
At this point, you may be asking yourself if you really need to keep the characteristics of different fluids in mind when shopping for used cars. The short answer is, you bet! If any of these fluids seem off, it’s a red flag that the car may have underlying mechanical issues — and you should walk away.
Test Drive to Spot Performance Problems
The test drive is one of the most critical steps in spotting a bad deal. During the drive, pay attention to how the car feels and sounds. Does it pull to one side? Does it feel shaky?
Meanwhile, keep your ears peeled for troubling sounds. Does the engine start smoothly, or does it struggle? Are there any strange noises, like knocking or whining, while driving? These sounds could mean engine problems or issues with the transmission. Listen closely for any unusual noises when turning the wheel, braking, or shifting gears. 1
Also, watch for warning lights on the dashboard. If the check engine light is on, this could signal a serious issue. Don’t be fooled by a seller who says it’s “nothing” – always have a mechanic check out any warning lights.
Review the Vehicle’s History Report
A vehicle’s history report can tell you a lot about its past. This report will show if the car has been in any accidents, how many owners it’s had, and if it has a salvage title. It will also reveal if the car has been reported stolen or if there are any open recalls.
To get this report, you can use services like Carfax or AutoCheck. Most honest sellers will offer up a vehicle history report, or perhaps a collection of repair records they’ve kept over the years. However, if the seller refuses to provide any of these documents, they may be hiding something. 2
Don’t Skip the Professional Inspection
Even if everything seems fine with the car, it’s still wise to get a professional inspection before buying. A mechanic can spot issues that you might miss. They can check the engine, transmission, brakes, and other key parts for hidden problems.
This inspection typically costs a couple of hundred dollars, but it’s worth the investment. After all, it could save you from buying a car that will end up costing thousands in repairs!
How To Know You’re Not Buying a Lemon
Buying a used vehicle can be a great way to save money, but it also comes with risks. To know you’re not buying a lemon, it’s essential to look for signs of past damage, check for leaks, and test drive the car to spot performance issues. Remember, nobody will call out these warning signs but you!
Reviewing the vehicle’s history report and getting a professional inspection are also key steps in protecting yourself from a bad deal. By following these tips, you can make a fine choice and avoid ending up with a lemon.