When you think of buying a car, what comes first into your mind? For most people, the make and model are the main factors they cross off on their specifications checklist. Fantasizing and visualizing how you will look behind the wheel of a car often leads to you buying the wrong car or worse, buying a faulty car. It is no longer surprising that a sizeable percentage of car owners spend most of its life in the garage rather than on the road.
For first-timers, it is good to bring along an experienced and trustworthy car broker who clearly understands the car dealership trade. If you do not have a trustworthy broker to aid you with basic information, then this article will help you understand what exactly to look for in a used car. Here are some of the specifics (specs) you should always check when buying a used car.
The Mileage on the Car
A vehicle’s cumulative mileage refers to the total distance the car has covered since it was initially bought. Cumulative mileage helps you understand the lifespan of the car, by comparing the exterior appearance of the body to its mileage.
The car’s engine condition is greatly affected by the accumulated mileage, such that a vehicle with 150,000 Km on it probably has a better engine than a vehicle with 800,000 Km. The simplest way to check the total mileage on the vehicle is by checking the odometer just below the speedometer. An odometer is almost impossible to reset. Therefore, you will get an accurate reading of the exact mileage the vehicle has cumulatively covered.
Authenticity of Engine and Chassis Numbers
Most used cars in the market are salvages, often disposed off after accidents. Vehicles that are involved in accidents and not written off are sold off to salvage dealers, who repair and restore them. Some vehicles require complete makeovers to attain full restorations.
Your auto dealer Jackson, MI will help you compare the chassis and engine numbers registered on the vehicle’s logbook to ensure they are a match. If the data entered in the logbook matches the engine and chassis numbers on the car, check to see if the door numbers match the engine number. Any mismatch is an indicator that the vehicle has been previously involved in an accident.
Power, Handling, and Consumption
It is heartbreaking to buy your first car and realize that you spent money to acquire a shell on wheels. You should always check the engine power output specifications in terms of horsepower, and see if the car meets your specific needs.
Handling refers to the simplicity of controlling the vehicle. Some cars have terrible braking and steering systems, and should be avoided. Always take your prospective vehicle out for a test drive before writing that check.
Faulty engines cause high fuel consumption, less power output, and poor acceleration.
The Turning Effect of the Engine, Torque
Torque refers to the amount of force generated by the engine. For heavy commercial vehicles, torque is the most important feature to check. It would be frustrating to buy a very fast truck, only to find out that it cannot start or maintain power after loading.
For light private vehicles, seek a balance between torque and performance.
Body Conditions
A car with multiple dents will need buffing and filling. Always check for multiple paint coats, which may be a clear indicator that the car has been in and out of body shops multiple times.
Vehicle Ownership History
Before buying any used vehicle, always conduct a thorough ownership search from the respective government departments. The auto dealer Jackson, MI, from which you are buying your car should have the car’s clear records of ownership. A lot of car buyers have found themselves on the wrong side of the law after buying a stolen vehicle. Some car owners have incurred massive losses in the hands of fraudulent dealerships.
Conclusion
Acquiring a used car will help you save money in comparison to buying a new one. It is recommended that you run background checks on the car and the dealership before making any financial commitment. With the rise of e-commerce dealers, buying used cars will only become easier and more convenient with time.