You’re thinking about buying a used car — and it’s smart to be wary, especially if you’ve believed in a deal that was too good to be true. YouTube car expert ChrisFix tells you exactly what you need to do during your test drive and the purchasing process to ensure you’re getting your money’s worth.
What do you need to know about test driving and buying a used car?
When you test drive a car, pay close attention to the engine, transmission, brakes, and suspension. On the title, ensure that the car isn’t a salvage or owned by a bank.
Checking for these issues can be easier said than done, and luckily, ChrisFix explains how to carefully make every consideration necessary to ensure that you’re getting a good deal when you purchase a used car.
Here, we’ve broken down each step that you need to go through when you’re completing your test drive and taking a look at the title of the car you’re about to purchase. ChrisFix has also created a checklist that you can follow when you’re going through the process of buying a used car.
What Drivers Need to Consider While Test Driving a Used Car
You’ll want to spend about ten minutes on your test drive. Drive normally, and try both city and highway driving if possible. You’ll want to do hard acceleration tests and hard braking tests (let the owner know before you do these tests).
For your hard acceleration test, merging is ideal. Listen to how the engine warms up, and pay attention to the shifting. Let the car coast and ensure that the car slows down appropriately. Test the cruise control while you’re on the highway.
For the braking test, hit the brakes hard (make sure there’s no one around) and see if you can get the ABS to engage. Ensure that the car stops straight when you hit the brakes hard.
You may also want to turn the car hard if you can get to an open parking lot. This will help you test the ball joints, axles, and power steering. Listen for any odd noises and pay attention if any part of the hard turns do not feel smooth.
Go over a bumpy road, if possible, to check out the suspension and steering. While you’re driving, ask the owner any questions that you have about the vehicle. Pay attention to the gauges and note if anything feels abnormal.
Making Your Offer
Negotiation is a standard part of the process. Consider any repairs that the car may need when making your offer. Don’t low ball the seller — you’ll want to be respectful and explain why you’re offering a different price than the seller is giving you.
If you’re ready to purchase the car and pay immediately, tell the buyer. Have a final number in mind that you’re willing to pay, and don’t be afraid to be firm with your offer.
The Title: What You Need to Know
When you’re looking at the title, check the mileage. Be sure that the letter next to the mileage is A (not S for salvage or L for lemon law). Check that the owner’s name is on the title. If there’s a stamp toward the bottom of the title without a signature next to the “lien released” line, that means that the bank still owns the car and that the seller is not actually authorized to sell the vehicle.
Buying a New Car?
If you’re thinking about purchasing a new-to-you used car, it’s key that you learn all you can about the vehicle before you meet with the dealer or seller. Check out Vehicle History to get comprehensive information on your potential new vehicle before you get behind the wheel and start to make a decision.
