What to Look for When Buying a Used Car

Knowing what to look for when buying a used car can help ensure that you get a dependable vehicle that will meet your Irvine-area driving needs. Many drivers believe that mileage is the key indicator of whether a used car is a good buy, but the maintenance history and the overall condition of the vehicle are important factors as well. Things to look for when shopping for a used vehicle include:

• Service History: A vehicle that has been kept up to date on its routine maintenance schedule can last for 150,000 to 200,000 miles or more.
• Exterior Condition: Inspect the exterior of the vehicle for scratches or dents, and also take a look at whether the body panels line up evenly. Uneven panels may indicate the vehicle was in an accident but not properly repaired. You should also open and close the doors, hood, and trunk to ensure that they are working correctly.
• Interior Condition: Inspect the interior by sitting in all the seats. Make sure to look for wear and tear in the upholstery. Does the interior of the car smell musty? Check the carpet and floor mats for signs of a leak or water damage.
• Check for Leaks: After you test drive the vehicle, check underneath it to see if there is any fluid leaking. Black fluid could be oil. Green, yellow or pink fluid may be antifreeze. Reddish fluid could be transmission or power-steering fluid.

Note that it is always a good idea to have the vehicle inspected by a mechanic of your choice prior to purchasing.

What to Ask When Buying a Used Car

While it is essential to know what things to look for when shopping for a used vehicle, it is just as important to know what to ask when buying a used car. Whether you’re shopping at a Yorba Linda area dealership or buying from a private seller, you’ll want to get answers to the following questions:

• Is the vehicle history report available?
• Are the maintenance records available?
• What is the vehicle’s mileage?
• Are the amenities and features in good working condition?
• What is the ownership history?
• Do you have the title in hand?
• Are there any current recalls on the vehicle?
• How was the vehicle priced?
• Can you take the car to a mechanic for an inspection?
• Is the car as is, or is it under warranty?

Find Quality Used Cars Today at Weir Canyon Honda!

Now that you know what to look for when buying a used car, head on down to Weir Canyon Honda in Anaheim to check out our huge inventory of quality used cars, trucks, and SUVs. We have a wide selection of vehicles to choose from, including like-new certified pre-owned vehicles that come with special benefits like warranty coverage and roadside assistance. Whether you’re interested in one of our used or CPO vehicles, you’ll want to explore our pre-owned vehicle specials to take advantage of some of the best deals in the Tustin area. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions.