What are the key considerations when buying a car?
2 Answers
When purchasing a car, pay special attention to the following aspects: Vehicle condition inspection: The exterior color should be harmonious, uniform, full, flat, and smooth, without pinholes, pits, wrinkles, bubbles, flow marks, or scratches. Door windows should move up and down freely, reaching the top when raised and the bottom when lowered. Open the engine hood to check for oil stains or dust on the engine and its accessories, especially at the connection points between the cylinder head and cylinder block, oil filter interface, air conditioning compressor, power steering pump, and drive shaft for any leaks. Check accompanying documents: Always request the purchase invoice from the dealer and verify its validity. Verify the displacement, manufacturing date, chassis number, and engine number on the nameplate. The numbers on the certificate must match the engine number and chassis number on the vehicle.
When I want to buy a car, the most important thing is budget control. I first calculate the total expenses I can afford, including the car price, monthly loan payments, insurance costs, taxes, and subsequent maintenance expenses. Don't just look at the new car's sticker price; a used car might be more cost-effective but beware of hidden condition issues. A test drive is a must—I personally drive it to test acceleration, steering, and comfort, checking if noise levels affect the driving experience. Fuel consumption data should be examined carefully, as there's a big difference between city and highway driving. Safety cannot be overlooked—check basic features like the number of airbags and anti-lock braking systems, and ensure the crash test ratings are excellent. When choosing a car, bring a knowledgeable friend to help inspect the engine and chassis to avoid buyer's remorse. Maintenance costs should also be estimated, opting for reliable brands to reduce frequent breakdowns.
