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Buying a used car? Expert tips to speed, ease the
process
(ARA) - The approach of summer means just one thing to car buyers - the
opportunity to score a great deal, especially on some used vehicles
that dealers are motivated to move out of their inventory as 2010
really gets rolling.
Bargains can be hot at this time of year for those who know how to shop
smart for a good used car. With "Cash for Clunkers" a fading memory and
Americans still looking to buy used cars rather than investing in new
ones that depreciate as soon as you drive them off the lot, the used
car market is hotter than ever.
Brian Bossone, one of the creative minds behind SPEED's popular "Pinks
All Out" series, knows a lot about used cars. After all, the series
features common folks who buy and build or rebuild their own race cars
to compete in the popular drag racing show. Bossone offers a few tips
to help you ensure you're buying the used car of your dreams, rather
than the lemon of the year.
Here are the top items you should inspect when buying a used car:
1. Look for paint and body repair. Evidence of body work could mean the
car has been in an accident.
2. Check for fluid leaks. Any leaking fluid, from oil to windshield
washer, could mean the car needs a costly repair.
3. Look at the engine. Does it sound smooth or rough? Does it smoke
excessively?
4. Evaluate the overall wear and tear on all parts of the vehicle. Is
the wear commensurate with the age and mileage on the vehicle?
5. Has the car been driven by someone who smoked in it? Transported
pets or small children in it? All those things can leave odors behind
in the vehicle - smells you might have to live with or go to great
lengths to eliminate as the new owner.
6. What was the primary usage of the vehicle and are most of
its miles highway or local driving?
7. Are all accessories in working order? The sunroof is great ...
unless the motor to open it doesn't work.
8. How is the drivability? Do the brakes squeak? Does something in the
passenger cabin rattle? Does the steering vibrate?
Avoid common mistakes, like buying on impulse without researching
simple things like the resale value of the vehicle compared to similar
makes and models, available vehicle history reports that list accidents
and other issues and price comparisons with multiple sellers or online
sites.
Be sure to ask for an inspection by a qualified source and request
copies of vehicle maintenance records. Check online feedback on
vehicle-specific forums for actual owner opinions and comments on
common issues.
While local newspapers and neighborhood used-car lots can be great
resources for finding good used vehicles, don't overlook online ones as
well, Bossone advises. Craigslist.org, Racingjunk.com, eBay.com and
Autotrader.com can also yield quality used vehicles.
Finally, when you think you're ready to buy, take the car to a mechanic
you trust and ask him/her some key questions, including:
* Will this vehicle pass local or state inspection?
* Do you see any signs of paint repair, accidents or frame damage?
* Have you ever worked on this type of vehicle and are you aware of any
trends toward excessive repairs for this make and model?
* Would you buy this vehicle if you were in the market for one and if
not, what would deter you?
"Used cars continue to be a great deal for value-minded buyers, and
with a little smart preparation, you can be sure your 'new' used
vehicle gives you many years and miles of good service," Bossone says.
"Pinks All Out" airs every Thursday at 8 p.m. Eastern time on SPEED.
Visit www.SpeedTV.com to learn more.
Courtesy of ARAcontent
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