Purchasing a used car can save you money since it often comes at a relatively lower price than a new one. Also, some people tend to upgrade their vehicles within a few years, which means that you can be lucky enough to purchase a used car that's been maintained properly at a budget-friendly price. Another plus is that there are no hidden costs to worry about if you buy a certified pre-owned model since it undergoes a thorough multi-point inspection before being sold.
To avoid any issues after purchasing a used car, you may need to note some things on your checklist, such as the mileage, warranty, and engine condition. We offer you a comprehensive list of what you need to check when you head to a dealership to buy a used car.
Every vehicle has a distinct VIN, which helps you get information such as the vehicle history report. The vehicle history report includes the accident, maintenance, and ownership history. Sites such as Kelly Blue Book and Vehicle History can help you find a vehicle's history report.
A quick VIN check helps you determine whether the information you found matches the car title and the available records. It can also show if there were any recalls for the specific car model you wish to purchase. The check will save you time and money, especially in cases where the manufacturer made a safety recall.
Mileage
A car's mileage may help you understand how long or how much a car was used before the owner sold it. Car mileage directly impacts how long you can use the vehicle because the higher the mileage, the higher the usage. Higher usage may indicate wear and tear within the vehicle components. However, if the previous owner kept up to date with their routine maintenance schedules, high mileage may not be an issue since the car parts are probably in good working condition.
While low mileage cars are ideal for many car buyers, they may also be a concern. Low usage in a used car that is relatively older may cause dry and brittle rubber parts. These parts can be costly to repair if you're overhauling the rubber parts from tires to the serpentine belt in the engine.
Electronic Systems
Tire Condition
Tires should be in good condition to avoid mishaps since they provide a point of contact with the road. Inspect the tires for baldness and any uneven tread wear to prevent accidents. If you detect either of these signs, conduct further inspections in areas connected to the tires, like the steering and suspension system, to avoid significant problems such as misalignment, which may be costly to repair. Tire misalignment can indicate a problem with the car's steering, suspension, or body frame.
Paint Chips or Rust on the Bodywork
Keenly inspect the car's body for paint damage, inconsistency, or rust. Also, check for any chips on the fenders or grilles as they may indicate issues affecting motion sensors or cameras that assist safety features, such as Parking Assist. If you encounter any paint chips or inconsistencies, thoroughly check them to ensure that they aren't cover-ups for any rust. A rust patch can indicate damage to the car's structures, which may affect the vehicle's safety and your overall safety.
Engine Condition
Ensure you assess the engine for leaks or erosion on the connecting wires to determine its overall condition. Leaks can indicate issues in different parts of the engine. You can pinpoint the areas by inspecting the color of the fluids. For example, black fluid means leaking engine oil, while a reddish fluid may be a leak in the transmission or power-steering fluid.
Electronic Systems
Electronic systems include GPS, driver assist, air conditioning, radio, and infotainment. These systems are integral to your summer activities, such as taking road trips that require GPS and air conditioning to keep the car cool in the summer heat. In your inspection, confirm which electronic systems are functioning and ensure that a technician fixes the ones that aren't.
Warranty
Car warranties are valid for a certain period per the manufacturer's indications. Used cars may have exceeded this warranty period, but sometimes you can encounter rare gems that are relatively new and have a valid warranty. Warranties can save you money by catering to repair expenses within the valid period. In situations where the initial warranty isn't valid, some dealerships provide warranties you can inquire about, such as the Nice Care Package that covers parts like the engine and transmission.
Technician's Inspection
Once you've completed the car inspection and reviewed its warranty validity, get a professional technician to assess the car. The inspection is a paid service but can save you from purchasing a faulty car. Technicians know what to look for and can conduct a thorough analysis to determine any underlying issues. After the technician gives you a final diagnosis, ask for their advice on whether to make the purchase.
Organize a Test Drive
Test drives can tell you how the vehicle performs on the road and if you can achieve optimum functionality. If the car is an off-roader, you can take an off-road test drive to test its capacity. For an on-road car, drive along the highway, maneuver turns to test the brakes, and try to parallel park the car. The test drive will give you a verdict on the car's performance and safety.
Purchase a Used Car from Sioux Falls Ford
At Sioux Falls Ford, we offer a broad range of used cars from renowned automakers. Whether you're seeking a used truck, SUV, or sedan, our used vehicle inventory serves all your needs, and some have warranty coverage available on the Nice Care Inventory. This inventory consists of a specially selected range of used cars with an added protection package, the Nice Care Package.
It comprises a 12-month, 12,000-mile warranty package and covers parts such as the engine, transmission, and axles. This package also covers components that wear out more quickly, like brake pads, tires, bulbs, and the battery. We got something for everyone all under one roof. Contact us with queries about our used car inventory or the Nice Care Package.