Buying a used car can often be a real adventure. You need a reliable vehicle, but you also need a fair price. One golden rule is that if a used‑car offer seems too good to be true, it usually is. The reasons aren't always easy to spot. But what should you pay attention to when inspecting a car? This accelerated guide will help.
What to check in a used car before purchase?
Of course, you should look at the condition of the tires, wipers, body and windows (check for cracks!), but first of all, look under the hood. You don’t have to be a mechanic to verify that everything is in order.
• Coolant. Check that the reservoir is filled up to the marked line. Too little fluid may indicate a leak (in that case inspect the hoses, but only when the engine is cold). Coolant helps dissipate heat from the engine and plays a crucial role. Unfortunately, this component often does not receive proper maintenance.
• Engine oil level. Too little oil may indicate that the car has not been properly serviced. Ask the owner to show you the oil level. The vehicle should be on level ground, and the engine should be off for at least 10 minutes. The oil should be between the two marks on the dipstick. It’s also always useful to be able to check the service book or verify that the oil was changed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Engine. Starting the engine “cold” is a great basic check without equipment. If you hear odd noises, knocking or hesitation, it may indicate a problem. If you see blue or black smoke after start‑up, something is definitely wrong. That means fuel is not burning properly or the engine oil is burning. It can also point to injection system issues. This needs to be addressed, as it can damage the engine in a relatively short time.
• Fuel filter. This component is important because the filter protects the fuel system from harmful dirt. The filter prevents debris from entering the fuel and damaging the vehicle. Timely replacement of the fuel filter is necessary to protect the injectors. So be sure to ask when the filter was last changed.
• Oil leak. An oil stain under the car is never a good sign. You can also check for drips under the hood. Loss of oil leads to insufficient lubrication and prevents the engine from dissipating heat. Sometimes the leak occurs due to a worn gasket or seal. You can check this by looking at the valve cover. Do you see oily spots around the joint with the cylinder head? If the seal or gasket is porous, it needs replacement.
Valve cover
If you buy a well‑maintained car, you’ll enjoy it longer. If you want to service your car yourself professionally, check here which products are suitable for you.
