What to Pay Attention to When Buying a Car?

[LeMiguel]

When negotiating the price before buying a car, pay attention to adding an engine guard plate—try to get it for free, but buy it if necessary. Be cautious of verbal promises from 4S shops. Watch out for insurance pitfalls. Inspect the car carefully. Check the odometer reading when picking up the car. Additional details are as follows: 1. Check the odometer reading when picking up the car: It should generally be 8–10 km. Inspect the radiator for debris, ensure the seat protective packaging and front plastic cover are intact, and check for any dirt on the driver/passenger seats or dashboard. 2. For pre-ordered vehicles: Pay attention to the gap between the manufacturing date and delivery date. If the gap is too long, the car might be a display or refurbished model. 3. When picking up the car: Request the production and shipping dates, and compare them carefully with the delivered vehicle. 4. After purchase: If the car is handed over to the 4S shop for licensing and paperwork, remember to note the odometer reading. 5. Inspect the exterior: When selecting a new car, ask to compare two models of the same type. Check the body gaps and paintwork. 6. Inspect the mechanical parts: Start with the engine—a well-functioning engine should have no oil stains, respond quickly when started, run smoothly without shaking, and produce even sounds without sharp or irregular noises. For new cars, check the battery status via the indicator. 7. Check the ground: Look under the car after a short drive for any signs of water or oil leakage, which can help identify hidden issues. Normally, only the exhaust pipe should have water droplets; no other parts should show leaks. 8. Inspect the tires: A new car's tires should have no damage to the sidewalls, especially the front tires, and no puncture marks on the tread. 9. Check the doors: A properly functioning door should open and close smoothly without unusual noises. The rubber seals should be intact, and closing the door should feel airtight with a slight suction effect at the end. The paint on the door frame edges should be flawless—any wear or dirt may indicate poor storage conditions. Power windows should have anti-pinch features for all four doors. 10. Inspect the interior: The interior should be clean, especially in high-contact areas. Electrical or mechanical components should operate smoothly without noise. The floor should be dry and clean. Test all interior lights to ensure they work properly. Remove the seat protective covers to check the condition of the original leather upholstery. Test fragile components like cup holders and sunglass covers to ensure they function correctly.