The process of buying a used car can be daunting because it was used before, and one may wonder about its quality. There are many factors to take into consideration such as the performance, current internal and external conditions, previous damages, as well as the amount of paperwork you need to go through, especially if this is your first time buying a car.
Worry not because here is a list of key points and areas you need to pay attention to in ensuring no stones are left unturned to own a smooth working pre-owned car:
Major inspection
Assess all the main components of the car’s structure, from the chassis and frame to the roof panel and pillars. This is to ensure the car has not been in any major accidents as well as suffer any flood damages. These are the key areas to check:
- No major accident: Replaced seatbelts and airbags are clear signs a car has sustained a major accident as they are designed to work effectively only once. By checking if they have been replaced, you can find out if these safety components work well without sustaining any prior severe damage.
- No flood damage: With Malaysia’s flash floods, most cars are susceptible to flood damage and signs of flood damage are difficult to pinpoint too. Make sure you examine every nook and cranny from door panels, trims, steering coupling, and air filters to the electrical, engine, and transmission systems in ensuring no mold and rust will linger to harm the car.
Interior inspection
Interior inspection is often overlooked but this is where you spend most of your time while you own the car so take extra care here. You can engage your senses to sniff for any unwanted odor such as musty smell which could indicate water leaks or turn on the ignition without starting the engine to ensure all warning lights illuminate. Examine all other interior components and amenities including buttons, knobs, gauges, locks, audio system, levers, roof, and the air-conditioning too.
Engine inspection
One of the most crucial parts to inspect is the engine. Look for any leaks or wears and tears and do your research on the type of engine, the legitimacy of the engine matching the car, and how to maintain it. This is important to prevent major damages and for your maintenance in the future.
Undercarriage inspection
An undercarriage inspection is essential because it can reveal whether the car was previously involved in an accident and can help prevent unexpected costly repairs. Focus on the brakes and various systems involving transmission, suspension, and exhaust. Moreover, look for signs of rust, leaks, or recent repairs.
Road test inspection
A moving car will be examined to pick up on any potential issues a static car cannot reveal. If possible, take a short drive to identify any issues involving the engine, steering system, brakes, gearbox, suspension, and transmission. Look out for any abnormal noises, vibrations, or faulty mechanical issues as safety and comfort are of utmost priority.
Every detail of these inspections is crucial in getting a pre-owned car that is safe, comfortable, and road-ready. If only matters can be simplified by having the hassle of intricate car inspections taken off your hands. This way, there will be one less thing to worry about before you get yourself behind the wheels.
Consider checking out pre-owned cars platforms such as Carsome. Every Carsome Certified car undergoes a stringent 175-point inspection and results of the inspection will be reported for transparency. With Carsome Certified, you can rest assured that you are getting a hassle-free car-buying experience with no hidden fees. All Carsome Certified cars come with a five-day money-back guarantee and a one-year warranty to ensure further peace of mind.
