Used Car Buyer's Checklist | Gainesville FL
Need to buy a car but want to save money in the process? Purchasing used is a great option. However, there are several added factors to keep in mind when searching for the right vehicle, especially when it comes to history and reliability. At Parks Ford Lincoln of Gainesville, we work hard to keep our customers informed about what to look for during this search, so keep reading to learn more!
Do Your Research
Before beginning your search, you should ask yourself if there's a certain type of vehicle that you need (such as a car, truck or SUV). By deciding on which type to search for, you'll have a more specific list of inspection items to check. When researching the vehicle, be sure to find out what the common problems are for the models you're thinking of buying.
Exterior Checks
Always check the body condition by walking around the vehicle and noting any scratches, dents or rust. Look at the body panels too; everything should line up evenly, and the doors, hood and trunk should open and close with no problems. While walking around the vehicle, inspect the tires. They should all be the same brand and should be in good condition — that means no cracks, bulges, scuffing or bad tread. Lastly, always be sure to check the lights. They should all function properly and not have any cracks, damage or any signs of moisture.
Interior Checks
When checking out the interior, always check for any odor. If the car smells like mold or mildew, that could mean a water leak or flood damage. Also check the seats for any wear or any tears in the upholstery. Additionally, ensure the seats work properly and that you can get the driver's seat into a comfortable position for your needs. You should also test out the controls and instruments to make sure they're working correctly. Also, look at the roof for any signs of staining or water leaking through a sunroof or window.
Under the Hood
Another important step is to look under the hood; check the hoses, belts, fluids, oil and transmission fluid. They should all be at their correct levels, and there should be no cracks, leaks or water. Take a look under the vehicle, as well, to check for any leaks below.
The Test Drive
The test drive is probably one of the most important steps in your inspection. Start the engine and listen for how long it takes the car to start and for any odd noises. Take the vehicle on various roads so you can test it at a variety of speeds. Also, check that the transmission shifts smoothly, and make sure the brakes offer good stopping power without pulling the vehicle to either side.
Paperwork and Mechanic's Inspection
Before signing off on all the paperwork to purchase your vehicle, a good idea is to get the vehicle identification number (VIN) and run a vehicle history report. Most dealers provide a report on all of their used vehicles. You can also have a trusted repair shop thoroughly inspect the vehicle before you purchase it.
If you have any questions about what you need to do before buying a used car or would like to test-drive any used cars, please feel free to contact us or stop by Parks Ford Lincoln of Gainesville at 3333 North Main St., Gainesville, FL 32609. We look forward to serving our customers from Alachua, Starke, Ocala and Lake City.
