Tips to Detect Hidden Defects in a Used Car (2)

Read our blog if you want to be able to detect any hidden defects on the vehicle and be protected from becoming a victim of dealer fraud.

Windows

• See if there are any hairline cracks or tiny holes in the glass.
• Make sure that they move up and down smoothly and if they fit snugly when fully rolled up or down.

Tailpipe

• Check if the vehicle’s tailpipe is damaged from poor reversing.
• Examine the rear bumper for too much soot from the exhaust.  If the tailpipe has black gummy soot, this may be an indication that the engine has worn rings or bad valves, which could mean expensive repairs.

Tires and Shock Absorbers

• Check the tires (don’t forget the spare) if they are unevenly worn as this may indicate either bad alignment or worse – damaged suspension.
• Put your full weight on a corner of the car and release – if the car keeps rocking up and down, be wary about the condition of the shock absorbers.

Interiors

• Check if the car’s steering wheel points straight when the wheels are aligned ahead.
• Check the upholstery for cigarette burns, stains, rips or scuffs.  Low mileage readings but too much worn out driver’s seat and brake and accelerator pedals could be an indicator of odometer rollback.
• Musty smell, moisture inside the trunk, dirt under the mat and watermarks on the interior panels of doors are likely indicators of flood damage.

Lights and Mechanical Devices

• Make sure the lights, heater, air conditioner, windshield wipers, radio and other accessories work properly.

We hope this blog and one of our previous blogs Tips to Detect Hidden Defects in a Used Car (1) will help you to avoid car dealer scams.