Buying Second Hand Car: 5 Things To Check In A Used Car

Buying a second hand car can be stressful if you do not approach it correctly. On the other hand, you can get a used car that is in great shape. One that has very few miles on it has been taken care of up until it was traded in, and that would be like buying a new car, but much cheaper.

Cars like Volkswagens can last a very long time if they are cared for, so as long as you check it out before you buy it, you will end up with a car you can use until you pass it on to one of your children. There are 5 things to check in a used car that you need to be aware of before you start Buying Second Hand Car, so let’s get to them before you rush out the door.

5 Things You Need To Check Before Buying Second Hand Car

Do A Walk Around –

• The first step when checking out a used vehicle will be to walk around it. Look for any signs of damage, especially ones that may have been covered up. These can be seen by slight variations in the color of the paint. It doesn’t necessarily mean that the car is not a good buy. It just means that the car has had damage at one time in its history. Check for any broken body parts, mirrors, rims, molding, and so on. You are looking for any visible damage that could affect the car and how it drives. Take note of everything you see because it may come in handy later.

Take A Knee –

• Once you have made your walk-around, you should be back in the front of the car. Now you will need to get down onto a knee or your belly if the vehicle is low to the ground. Look underneath at the pavement for any signs of a leak. Do not assume that no drips mean no leaks. Look underneath the motor and transmission to see if there are any fluids. Check along the pieces of the frame as well because leaks will often pool on it. While looking underneath, look for any broken parts on the used Volkswagen. You need to know if driving on a test run is safe.

Check Inside –

• Now, you will want to go through everything inside, including the trunk (if it has one). Ensure that the interior seats, plastic, dash, radio, infotainment center, and everything else are in good shape and working order. If you can see it, make sure it is working and in good condition. Do not forget about the seat belts and the air and heat. Check it all before moving on to the next step.

Check All the Lights –

• If you have a friend with you, one of you can turn the lights on and off as the other person walks around and checks to see if they are doing what they are supposed to be doing. One bad light can get you pulled over, so you want to make darn sure that they all work before you commit to buying.

Take It For A Drive –

• Now it is time for the fun part. The test drive. Leave the radio and air off until you have taken it for a cruise. It is not good enough to simply take it around the block. You need to check it at town, highway, and traffic speeds. Listen for any noises that should not be happening and any rattles. Feel for any hesitation in the movements of the transmission or the engine. You are checking to ensure it drives the way it should be driving.

Before you take it back to the dealer, it is a good idea to have a certified mechanic that you trust check it out. They can tell you precisely what is wrong and how much it would cost to fix it. This, along with the issues you noted during your inspection, can be used to bicker on the price. Many dealerships mark the sticker price up, so they have room to come down. If you don’t ask, you will not be given any deals.

That is all that there is to the 5 things you need to check before buying second hand car for on a previously owned Volkswagen or any type of vehicle. Once you are happy with a car, sign on the dotted line, and take your new vehicle on a road trip, even if it is only to your house.