Things to Inspect Before Purchasing Used Cars
It’s estimated that there are about 650 million automobiles on the road in the United States, and each auto only lasts an average of 115,000 miles before needing to be replaced. One of the costs associated with the purchase of a new vehicle is the price of used cars in el cajon. However, it’s important to keep in mind that used cars have plenty of potential for problems after purchase. Items such as tires, brakes and clutches don’t last forever and can wear out prematurely if not regularly inspected. The biggest issues might be weak frames or rusting onboard electronics which can become a serious issue when purchasing a used car.
The following are things to inspect to ensure that your new used car will last a long time.
- Exhaust System:
Exhaust system problems can be expensive, since most exhaust systems fail in areas like the muffler and right by the catalytic converter. It’s important that you examine the exhaust pipe, header pipe and catalytic converter. Check them for cracks or leaks and make sure they are clean. A good rule of thumb is to check the exhaust system whenever a vehicle is driven 50-100 miles, resulting in a major repair if any parts need replaced due to inspection or wear and tear.
- Drive Belt:
If you see any signs of wear on the drive belt it could indicate that your engine is running at high speeds when it should be operating at idle speeds. An engine that operates at high speeds all of the time can cause serious problems for other vehicle systems. The drive belt should be inspected regularly and replaced when necessary, usually every 15,000 to 30,000 miles.
- Brake pads:
There are many things to inspect before purchasing used cars, including brakes. Check the brake pads for wear and make sure that they are not thinning or have worn down to less than 3mm thick. Brakes should also not squeal when you apply them, as this is a warning sign of wear. If you hear squealing noises while braking or decelerating it could indicate that the brake pads are worn out and will need replacing at some point in the near future.