If you’re in the market for a used car, there are a few key questions you should be sure to ask before making any kind of purchase. However, those who are inexperienced may not be aware of the best questions to ask and this can lead to mistakes. Knowing what to look for and which questions to ask can help you find the best car at the right price. Without further ado, let’s take a look!
1. What is the vehicle’s history?
When buying a used car privately or through a dealer like Cars4Us in Toowoomba, you want to know as much as possible about its past. Ask the seller for details on any past owners, how long they had the car, and how it was maintained. You should also ask for records of any maintenance that has been done recently or in the past as this can give you a better understanding of the vehicle’s condition.
2. Has it been involved in any accidents?
If you’re buying from a private seller, ask if the car has ever been in an accident and when it happened. You should also request to see any repair records for the vehicle prior to purchase. Accidents can cause unseen damage that may not be immediately visible or detectable.
3. Are all the major components original?
If any of the major components have been changed or replaced, this could affect the quality and reliability of the car in the long run. Ask if any parts have been replaced, such as tires, brakes, engine, transmission etc. This information is especially important for older cars that may have undergone upgrades to improve performance and reliability.
4. How many kilometres have been driven?
If you’re buying a used car with fewer than 100,000 kilometres, it’s considered relatively low mileage – which means there is less wear-and-tear on the engine and other parts. Ask how many kilometres have been driven since the last service, as this will give you a better indication of the car’s overall condition.
5. Have the oil and other fluids been regularly changed?
Regularly changing the oil and other fluids is essential for keeping your car running smoothly and efficiently. Ask if these have been consistently checked and replaced to avoid any potential issues down the line. This also applies to brakes, belts, filters and spark plugs.
6. Is the car covered by a warranty?
If you’re buying from a dealer, many of them offer warranties on their used cars. This provides added peace of mind that any unexpected issues will be taken care of in the future. Ask what sort of cover is included with the purchase – it may come stock standard or you may need to pay extra for it.
7. Have any repairs been done recently?
This is another important question to ask, as some recent repairs may not be immediately obvious. Ask what sort of work has been done recently and whether any major services are due soon. Knowing this information can help you feel more confident about your purchase and give you peace of mind.
8. How does the car drive?
Next, it’s always a good idea to take the car for a test drive before making any kind of purchase as this will help you get a better feel for how the vehicle handles and whether or not it is suited to your needs. Pay attention to any strange noises or vibrations as this could indicate a problem.
9. What is the asking price?
Finally, be sure to ask for the car’s current asking price to determine whether it is within your budget and if there is any room for negotiation. If you have done your research properly, you should have an idea of what similar cars are available at the same price.
