Choosing and Buying
Choosing and Buying
In short: choose a car that fits your needs and your running-cost budget, then check the specific vehicle through its paperwork, an inspection and diagnostics. Below are the criteria, the inspection order and what to watch for.
Selection criteria
- Your needs: city, highway, family, hauling cargo, towing
- Running costs: scheduled maintenance, consumables, insurance, taxes and fees
- Availability of parts and service for the model in your area
- Engine and transmission type and their maintenance requirements
- The emissions class listed in the car's documents
- Service history: service booklet and repair orders
How to inspect a used car, step by step
Paperwork
Match the VIN and engine number (if listed) in the documents against the car itself. Check that the owner details and any special notes are consistent.
Exterior inspection
Panel gaps, mismatched paint, welding marks, tire and brake rotor condition, leaks under the car.
Diagnostics
Plug a scanner into the diagnostic port: trouble codes and the status of emissions monitors. A lit check engine light is a reason to dig deeper before you buy.
Test drive
Cold start, transmission behavior, braking, unusual noises and vibrations, pulling when driving straight.
Independent inspection
Before the deal, it pays to have the car checked by a shop not connected to the seller: on a lift, with a look at the suspension, exhaust and any leaks.
Where to buy: comparing the options
| Criterion | New from a dealer | Used from a dealer | Used from a private seller |
|---|---|---|---|
| Service historyVerifiable fact | Starts from zero | Dealer records usually available | Depends on the owner |
| Manufacturer's warrantyVerifiable fact | Applies on the manufacturer's terms | Remaining warranty may apply | Only what remains, if any |
| How much checking the buyer must doOpinion or assessment | Minimal | Moderate | Extensive |
| Risk of hidden modificationsOpinion or assessment | Low | Moderate | Above average |
What else to look at
- Whether the mileage matches wear on the seats, pedals and steering wheel
- Both sets of keys and the owner's manual
- Records of the last oil change, brake fluid change and timing belt or chain replacement (if applicable)
- Battery condition and charging with the engine running
Sources
- TR CU 018/2011 "On the Safety of Wheeled Vehicles" (Customs Union Technical Regulation)
- Vehicle owner's manual
- Automakers' websites
This site does not replace your vehicle's owner's manual or maintenance schedule: take service intervals, fluid capacities, torque specs and fluid specifications only from there. Check design and emissions requirements with official sources.