Are you planning to buy a car? That is probably why you have landed on this article. Buying a new car can seem like an insensible option, even when it is within your budget. Being a new car buyer, it’s important to make smart and practical choices. More and more people opt for buying used cars rather than making a large purchase like buying a brand new vehicle. The moment you drive a new car off the lot, it will depreciate by as much as 11% of its value. You can lose up to 30% in the first year.
Purchasing a used car is a sensible and practical choice, especially for a new car buyer. You can buy used cars from individuals, Used car dealers, and car leasing agencies too. Purchasing a used car is a great option not only for those who need to stay within a specific budget and Need To Calculate Car Budget but also for those who want to make a smart financial decision; however, it is important to know what to look out for. Used cars that are sold with hidden damage may become costly problems for the unsuspecting buyer. It is good to know what to look for, what you are being offered, and if you are getting good value for your money. We have listed a couple of things that can serve as a guideline during your car hunting venture.
CHECKLIST FOR USED CARS THAT NEED TO BE TICKED…
Request an Engine Check
This is the first and most important thing that should be checked before purchasing a used car in Calgary. This is because most of the car’s performance relies on the engine. If there are issues detected in the engine, this is a car you will want to avoid purchasing.
Always Check for Leaks
The presence of oil or sludge on the tarmac under the car may indicate that there is a leak and should be checked. In order to check this yourself, you have to open the bonnet to check the surrounding parts around the engine for other leaks. To help you determine this easily, note that oil leaks usually come in brown or black color. Green, yellow or pink fluid may indicate a leak of the antifreeze or coolant. A reddish-brown fluid may indicate a leak on the gearbox and power steering fluid. As for the difference between the two, the gearbox fluid is usually thicker than the power steering fluid.
Do an Oil Check
It is important for a car owner to maintain the car’s oil. This is included in the overall car maintenance process and if you are to get a Calgary used car that has not been maintained over time, you may see that the dipstick reading is not on the correct level, the oil may be discolored or does have the right consistency. If you find grime or dirt enveloping some connectors, it might be an indication that the car is poorly maintained.
Check on the Head Gasket
Also known as the engine block and cylinder head, this is the thin part that is located on the lower and upper parts of the engine. The head gasket prevents the engine oil or coolant from penetrating the cylinders of the engine. You must check this on a cool engine to avoid any issues. Start by removing the oil cap. An indicator of a blown head gasket would be a white or light brown sludge with a similar consistency of mayonnaise. This problem may lead to loss of power, a rough sounding engine or a smoky exhaust.
Do a Clutch and Gearbox Check
Cars can have different manual and automatic gearboxes and it may be challenging to check on their condition because of this. You should remember that despite these differences, an automatic car should allow you to change and engage in all gears quietly and smoothly. As for a manual car, you should have to feel the movement of the car when releasing the clutch pedal midway. If there is a need to push your foot all the way down to the floor, there is definitely a need to check on it.
Full Body Work Check
This is probably the easiest check to be done. All you have to do is visually inspect the outside of the car for signs of replacement or repainting. This can indicate that the car has been through a previous accident and has undergone certain repairs. It is important to inspect your car inside, outside, underneath and in all corners possible. While old repairs do not necessarily mean harm to the car, it still is good to know the car’s history and whether or not you are buying a used car in Calgary that has or has not had any problems in the past.
Check for Rust
Apart from repairs, you should also be wary of the presence of rust on all metal body panels. When rust begins to bubble under the paint, it is important that you address it immediately, as it can cause further rusting on the car. Wheel arches should also be checked because of their high risk for rust. Panels should also be checked.
Check on the Tires and Wheels
Take a look at the tires along with the spare. You should know that if these are bent or have large dents, there may be a need for repair or replacement. Tires in good condition should not have splits, gouges, bulges or cuts. Its tread should come to at least 1.6 mm deep around the entire tire. Tires can be costly, and it is important to get ones in good condition instead of getting one that has been worn out or used.
Interior Car Check
It is ideal to purchase a Calgary used car that has an interior free of wear and tear. This can be an indication of poor maintenance and handling.
Having a car is a necessity rather than a luxury in today’s society and is utilized for transport in a day to day activities. A car can get you from point A to point B without relying on others and offers a more convenient means of transportation without using public transport methods. Unfortunately, not everyone can afford a brand-new car. However, there are other more affordable ways to purchase a car, such as visiting a used car dealership in Calgary. A person who wants to purchase a Calgary used car has the ability to visit a wide variety of Used Car dealerships to find the vehicle that is right for them.
Having a checklist is essential to ensure the car is not only within your budget but is in good condition and able to last an adequate time period. You can buy used Cars in Calgary From DOUBLE L MOTORS if you reside there.