Ask the Motor Trend Certified Mechanic
Signs that a used car may be an abused car
You definitely don't want to spend thousands of dollars on a used car and discover that there are underlying problems. Not only can this leave a tremendous void in your wallet with car repair costs, but it can also seriously hinder the level of safety on the road. When you buy a Motor Trend Certified vehicle you don't have to worry because each one is inspected, upgraded and guaranteed. But if you're buying elsewhere, here are some signs that could lead to problems down the road.
One common problem with used cars, which cannot always be identified upon purchase, is salt corrosion. Particularly in coastal climates, or those that endure hard winters and salty roads, the framing of cars can begin to rust. One tell-tale sign of salt corrosion is the wearing of paint on the body of the vehicle, but previous owners will frequently cover up this issue with a fresh paint job in order to trick people into buying a car in this condition.
Air bag compartments should always be examined to make sure the actual bag isn't missing, as past owners will sometimes remove it to sell for profit.
It's imperative to run a history check on any used vehicle you purchase, which includes a title transfer history, the number of previous owners, odometer readings and prior accidents according to insurance adjustments. The purchase of a used car doesn't have to be a gamble, especially if the vehicle is properly inspected and you've done your homework.
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