Buying a New-To-You Car By Cassie Johnson
T
ax returns are arriving, and maybe you’re contemplating spending Uncle Sam’s loot on a new set of wheels. New cars are in short supply and dealerships may not have the make or model you want. A new-to-you car may be the answer. Whether it’s a second vehicle for yourself, or the first car for your teen, we have some insider tips to help make sure you don’t drive away with the lemon of the lot.
Look past the internet
You can find just about anything online, but a truthful car report isn’t always one of them. Sites like CARFAX are popular but not necessarily 100% accurate. These sites rely on information reported to them – typically by owners, car dealerships, and insurance companies. Anything unreported goes undocumented, meaning it won’t appear on the report. CARFAX may be a good place to start, but don’t rely on it as your only source.
Check the tires
Tires are a good place to start when looking at a car. Their condition could give you a hint about prior maintenance or use. New tires can be expensive and add to the cost of the vehicle. If you see any cracks in the tread or sidewall areas, or notice steel wires sticking out, new tires are inevitable. If wear is worse on the edge of the tire, it could indicate an alignment problem. You can find helpful videos on how to measure tire treads on YouTube or familyhandyman.com
Listen to the car (and your gut)
If the tires pass your inspection and you get inside your potential new vehicle to start it up, listen carefully. Do you hear any squealing, clicking, knocking or thunks? This could mean anything from belts needing replacement to worn spark plugs. If the check engine light comes on, don’t ignore it. We often think it might merely be a sensor, but the issue could be anything from a minor loose fuel cap or an expensive catalytic converter. If you hear noises that make you nervous or question the vehicle's reliability, chances are it wasn’t meant to be.
Take the test drive
“A test drive is your opportunity to listen to the vehicle,” advised Mike Harlan, owner of Harlan Automotive of Paducah and Murray. “Does the engine run smoothly, the transmission shift well? Are the brakes or steering responding immediately? Do the brakes squeal or feel mushy? If you hear any grinding metal sounds, chances are the brake pads are worn out.”
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FEBRUARY - MARCH 2022
Purchase Area Family Magazine
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