SHOPPING FOR A USED CAR?

We have all had to do it at one time, (Some of us more often than others) and something that's common to all of us, is the frustrating process we endured. These guidelines might help the next time, and skip kicking the tires - it only hurts your toes!

Don't shop for a car using your emotions ! If you have your heart set on that "Love at first sight" car, you will probably overlook problems.  Your mind will only imagine how good you will look driving it.

The visual examination:

Stand back and look at the fit and finish. See if the doors and fenders align properly. Open and close the doors, trunk and hood - do they "feel" right? Is there an owner's manual in the glove box?

Test the accessories:

Test all the "whistles and bells". Test the fan and A/C, the radio, wipers and washers, and any power controlled devices too, like power antenna, windows and locks.

Look under the hood:

If it's so clean in there you can do surgery, leaks may be missed. Look at the fluid levels and quality. At this point that you may want to take it to a qualified technician and have it inspected, and tested for emissions. He will know what's right and wrong. Ask him what his recommendation is - it's what he does for a living!

Road testing:

This is where items are going to wave their "red flags" at you. Does it idle smoothly? Are there any unusual noises? Does it drive straight down the road? On a straight, level stretch, see if it wanders. Does the transmission shift smoothly?

Check the brakes:

Driving at 30-40 mph, and with no one behind you, apply the brakes. If they pull in either direction, there's a problem. Check for pulsations  (pedal oscillating or steering wheel vibrating when braking). This should be done at freeway speeds and lower speeds . With brakes being a safety item, any problems here need to be looked into.

Check the records:

Ask to see the service records. Maintenance and repair, if ignored, can lead to serious repair bills. Many vehicles use a timing belt, and if not replaced at proper intervals, can break and destroy an engine!. This can be upwards of a $3,000 to $7,000 job (or more) - OUCH!

Finally.......

Bring it to us for a Used Car inspection.  We can help you avoid a make a big mistake or give it our seal of approval.