Industry statistics show that one third of automobile consumers prefer to buy used cars as compared to investing in a new one. With the demand so high it is obvious that the consumer should be aware of the choices available to him. 
To help consumers make informed decisions in the process, here is a basic list of the things to check when buying a used car.

1. Vehicle’s safety features.

Make safety your primary concern. Older vehicles may not come equipped with airbags, child safety seats, seat belts, anti-lock brakes or security systems. Always give consideration to a vehicle with air bags and anti-lock brakes. They will not only make a car safer, but insurance companies sometimes give discounts on their rates for cars with these features.

2. Mileage of the vehicle.

Mileage is a good indication of the vehicle’s age. An average consumer drives from 12,000 miles to 15,000 miles each year. A late model used car is more lucrative and may come with many features that you might not be able to have the funds for in a new car.

3. The mechanical condition of the vehicle.

Check the mechanical condition of the vehicle. If you don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself, have a mechanic you trust inspect the car meticulously and in detail before you purchase it. Fluids, lights, the charging system, the air conditioner, power steering, the engine cooling system, the brakes and the suspension must be carefully inspected for any defects and wear. If the seller will not let you look over the car, do not buy it. Remember to inspect the used car in daylight and good weather.

4. Other parts to check: 

-look at the tires, scan for wheel alignment.
-check for rust around the fenders and bumpers, around lights, under doors and in wheel wells
-watch out for cracks, dents and mismatched body panels

5. Compare the prices.

After thoroughly checking the condition of the used car, it is time to find out what comparable prices are for similar vehicles in your area. The actual price of the car is only one of many factors that will decide your total price. You must compare financing rates, warranty costs, trade-in values and processing fees. The various features in the car will also make a difference in the price. If it the most up to date model, it will have the latest features in it. Hence it will be more expensive.

With such thorough research, you should be able to buy a reliable used car which will serve you for many years to come. Happy hunting!!!!

Tags: Cars, mileage, Used Cars

This entry was posted on Tuesday, September 2nd, 2008 at 5:58 am and is filed under Used Cars. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.