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How
to Buy a Used Car and
Not Get Taken
Cooling
System
The mechanic should examine all hoses and clamps and inspect
them for leaks. Older hoses increase the possibility of rupture,
and that is definitely something you'd like to avoid. By using
a special pump, the mechanic can pressurize the system and
check it for leaks.
Emission-Level Test
Unless the car is very old, it will have some type of emissions-control
system. With the right equipment, a mechanic can tell you
if the system is working properly and whether or not the car
will pass your state's emission test-if it has one. Excessive
emissions are also a good indication of the condition of the
catalytic converter.
Other Checks
Once the car is up on the lift, all visible brake lines, fuel
lines, fuel pumps. etc., should be inspected. With the wheels
off the ground, the wheel bearings can be checked for wear
or excessive play. Most mechanics can just pull on a tire
and determine if there is a hearing problem.
Also,
be sure the mechanic checks:
- Exhaust
system
-
Suspension
-
Alignment
-
Rear axle
- Tires
- Shocks
- Underbody
rust
-
Leaks
-
Accident damage
- Odometer
accuracy
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