Essential Vehicle Check Before Buying Tips from Ride Check

1. Essential Vehicle Check Before Buying: Tips from Ride Check Buying a used vehicle can be a smart financial decision, but it requires careful inspection to ensure you don’t end up with a lemon. Here's an essential guide from Ride Check to help you thoroughly evaluate Vehicle Check Before Buying. 1. Preliminary Visual Inspection •Exterior Condition: Walk around the car and inspect for any signs of damage, such as dents, scratches, and rust spots. Check the alignment of body panels for signs of previous accidents. •Glass: Look for any cracks or chips in the windshield and windows. Even minor chips can expand into larger cracks. •Lights: Test all exterior lights including headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals to ensure they are working properly. 2. Interior Examination •Seats and Upholstery: Check for rips, stains, and wear on the seats and upholstery. Ensure all seat adjustments work. •Dashboard and Controls: Inspect the dashboard for warning lights. Test the functionality of all controls and features like the radio, air conditioning, and heating.

2. •Odometer Reading: Verify the mileage on the odometer and compare it to the vehicle’s age. An unusually low or high mileage can be a red flag. 3. Under the Hood •Engine: Look for leaks, corrosion, and worn hoses. Check the oil level and color; it should be clear and not too dark. •Fluid Levels: Ensure that coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid are at the correct levels and free from contaminants. •Battery: Check for corrosion on the battery terminals and make sure the battery is securely mounted. 4. Tires and Suspension •Tire Condition: Check the tires for even tread wear and ensure there are no cuts, cracks, or bulges. Uneven wear could indicate alignment issues. •Suspension: Push down on the corners of the car to test the shocks. The car should bounce back once and settle. •Brakes: Inspect the brake pads and discs for wear. Listen for any grinding or squeaking noises during a test drive. 5. Test Drive Evaluation •Starting the Car: Pay attention to how the car starts. It should start smoothly without unusual noises. •Driving Performance: Test the car at various speeds and road conditions. Check for smooth acceleration, responsive braking, and steady steering. •Handling and Noise: Listen for any unusual noises and note how the car handles turns and bumps. 6. Vehicle History Report •Accident and Repair History: Obtain a vehicle history report to check for past accidents or major repairs. This report can reveal if the car has been in any serious incidents. •Ownership and Usage:Verify the number of previous owners and the vehicle’s usage history. A car that was used as a rental or fleet vehicle might have more wear and tear. •Maintenance Records: Review the maintenance history to ensure the car has been regularly serviced.

3. 7. Professional Inspection •Mechanic Evaluation: Have a trusted mechanic perform a thorough inspection. They can identify issues that may not be visible to the untrained eye. •Diagnostic Test:A diagnostic scan can reveal any hidden problems with the car’s electronic systems, giving you a clearer picture of its condition. Conclusion Conducting a detailed vehicle check before purchasing a used car with Ride Check can save you from future issues and unexpected expenses. By following these steps, you can ensure that you are making a well-informed decision and investing in a reliable vehicle. SOURCE: https://www.evernote.com/shard/s736/sh/16156c43-04de-cd9f-c78d- e966767e9f71/48xrUlFDCrKueDBtbD5Uq3gDqnqe_KB8L6yxpij7_HHCPk2cTMd44bmY1Q