How to Buy a Used Car - Pt. 2: The Test Drive

Schedule the test drive for a time when there’s no rush. If it’s bad weather, reschedule. Take a little notebook, write a quick check list based on this article, and make notes. When you approach the car's owner, be friendly, polite and courteous. Do NOT try to “beat them down” to get a better deal. While you have every right to ask direct questions, you have no more right to insult their car than one of their children.

First, check the tires. Pull the steering wheel all the way to the left (and then right) so you can see the entire tread. Uneven tire wear– marks on the side or deep grooves in the middle– may indicate suspension issues. And nothing screams “lemon” louder than cheap, bald or strangely worn rubber.

Next, open and close all the doors several times, including the trunk and hood. Check for paint on the hinges and moldings. If a door creaks, it’s usually no big deal. If a door has trouble closing, it can signal anything from a broken hinge to frame damage.


Read Article

M53R - 6/23/2007 12:33:54 PM

+1 Boost

Well I dont think any of us will be buying cars that are as old as the car in the picture... so we may be able to skip some parts.

ATrain - 6/24/2007 9:27:13 AM

+1 Boost

M53R,

This could apply to a 12mo old car if, for example, it was in an undiclosed accident and poorly repaired.

When I say accident, I don't mean a wreck. Could be as simple as hitting a curb or a pothole with the wrong angle / car. Check some of the blogs on Z8 for ample evidence.

johannas - 6/25/2007 1:30:59 PM

+1 Boost

"Test all the buttons and switches including the radio stations. If the owner listens to aggressive music, chances are the car’s been thrashed."

lol, that's great.