How to Check the Quality of a Used Car?

[LaHope]

Here is a relevant introduction on how to check the quality of a used car: 1. Check the documents: This is a very important point. If the documents are incomplete, no matter how good the car is, it should not be considered. Incomplete documents may indicate that the car is stolen or illegal (a black-market vehicle). Therefore, the first step is to confirm whether the documents are complete. Then, compare the engine number on the car body to see if it matches. If it doesn’t match, the car should definitely not be considered. 2. Inspect the exterior: This includes the sheet metal, paint, and body frame. The first impression of the exterior is crucial. Check for scratches on the paint and any hard-to-notice dents. Pay special attention to whether the body frame has any dents or misalignment, as this could indicate a major accident. The extent of wear on the frame can help determine if the car has been involved in a serious collision. 3. Examine the car’s hardware: This includes the engine and chassis. Look for signs of oil leakage under the chassis. Check the wiring harness in the engine compartment for corrosion or aging. Inspect the engine block and mechanical parts for any signs of rust or mold. You can also start the car and listen to the engine sound for any unusual or harsh noises. 4. Interior inspection: The cleanliness of the carpet under the seats can help assess the car’s usage. Since most car owners cover their seats with leather or seat covers, judging by the seats alone may not be very accurate.

[VanJulia]

I have years of experience in checking the quality of used cars, and I focus on several key areas. First, inspect the exterior by walking around the car, carefully checking for obvious scratches, dents, or rust, especially along the door edges and bumpers—these areas often show signs of repair after collisions. Open the hood and listen to the engine during startup; a smooth idle without strange noises is good, while black smoke may indicate combustion issues. For the interior, take a seat and check for severe wear or unusual odors, as odors might suggest water damage. During the test drive, don’t just stick to smooth roads—find some bumpy sections to test the suspension and steering system. Additionally, review the vehicle’s history by asking the seller for maintenance records and scanning the VIN with a mobile app to check for accident reports. Remember, going for the cheapest option might cost you more in the long run—it’s wise to bring a knowledgeable friend to help inspect the car for reliability. Over time, you’ll develop your own tricks to minimize the risk of buying a problematic vehicle.