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It requires meticulous verification ranging from the vehicle’s maintenance, to the serial numbers, to the condition of the consumables. It is crucial to set a budget and know the car’s auto rating. In addition, test driving the vehicle and checking the vehicle’s history are essential steps. These tips will help you make an informed and safe choice.
How do I choose my used vehicle?
To select a used car that meets your needs, several criteria can guide your choice. First, the make and model of the vehicle are decisive. Some models are known for their reliability and robustness, which can be an asset for a used purchase.
Fuel type is another crucial element. Gasoline, diesel, hybrid or electric, it is essential to choose according to the use you intend to make of the vehicle.
The intended use of the car should also be taken into account. For example, a city car will be suitable for urban journeys, while an SUV or sedan will be more suitable for long journeys or for a large family.
Finally, the age and mileage of the vehicle are important criteria. A vehicle that is too old or has high mileage may require more frequent repairs.
How to check a used car before buying? Our advice
Checking the general condition of the used car is a crucial step. Start by taking a look around the vehicle. Pay particular attention to the bodywork , potential impacts or paintwork that could indicate a repair following an accident.
Inspect the condition of the windows and seals . Pay particular attention to signs of corrosion or possible misalignment of the doors, hood or trunk.
Next, let’s move on to the interior. Signs of excessive wear and tear may indicate higher mileage than advertised.
Finally, under the hood, check the general condition of the engine compartment. Look for possible fluid leaks and check the condition of the various parts: battery, belt, etc. A rusty battery or a cracked belt could mean that the vehicle has not been properly maintained.
Control of mechanical elements
Checking the mechanical elements requires special attention. Start by checking the condition of the gearbox . Smooth gear changes, without any hitches or suspicious noises, are a good sign. Next, the clutch system should be evaluated. A hard clutch pedal or a very high slip point can indicate a worn clutch.
Don’t forget to take a look at the brake pads . If they are too worn, this is an additional cost that should be anticipated quickly.
The vehicle chassis should be inspected for signs of corrosion or repairs.
The condition of the underbody can also give clues about the conditions of use of the vehicle. Impacts can mean that the car has been used on roads in poor condition.
Finally, check the timing belt . A worn belt can cause significant engine damage.
Checking the condition of the tires
For a complete tire evaluation, start with a visual inspection . Look for any uneven wear , which could indicate a geometry or suspension problem. Tires should be identical (size, brand) on each axle.
Next, check the depth of the tread grooves . The legal minimum depth is 1.6 mm. You can do this using a 2 euro coin.
Also take a look at the tread wear indicators located in the grooves of all tires. These will tell you if a tire change is necessary or will be necessary soon.
Finally, don’t forget to check the age of your tires . Even if the tire appears to be in good condition, an older tire can pose safety risks. You can determine the age of a tire by looking at the production date on the sidewall of the tire.
Brake system check
Checking the brake system is crucial to ensuring vehicle safety. It begins with a visual inspection of the brake discs and pads . Excessive wear may indicate an imminent need for replacement. The visual inspection should also include the calipers , lines and hoses to detect any leaks or defects. Inspecting the sealing circuit and brake fluid level is also essential.
Inspect the brake pedal to ensure that there is sufficient contact surface and guidance.
Perform a road test to check how the brakes work in different situations (city, highway, winding road)
If the vehicle is equipped with ABS , sudden braking should cause jerks in the pedal.
If in doubt, do not hesitate to ask a professional for a brake diagnosis .