It’s often hard to believe that the used car you’re considering was really owned by a sweet old lady who bakes cookies for the neighborhood and teaches Sunday school. Unfortunately, in today’s market, one must make purchasing decisions based on intuition coupled with insights from family or friends who may be inspecting the car alongside you. However, there are eight strategies we can explore to help guide you toward making the right choice. Remember, a lemon can sometimes come in the guise of a brand-new vehicle.
The term “lemon” applies to a vehicle that has been significantly misrepresented by the seller, which results in the buyer paying far more than its actual worth. Such a car often suffers from ongoing issues, which may pertain to safety, functionality, or value. Determining whether your vehicle qualifies as a lemon can be addressed under the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, commonly known as California’s Lemon Law.
If you suspect you’ve purchased a lemon, it would be wise to consult an attorney. The law mandates that manufacturers must either replace your vehicle or issue a refund if they fail to repairs after a reasonable number of attempts.
Ways to Avoid Purchasing a Lemon
Always delve deeply into the history of the vehicle you’re interested in. One of the most popular resources for this is Carfax. In recent years, additional services like AutoCheck and Vincheck have emerged. Carfax boasts a long history, though it is also quite expensive. Some dealerships provide this information as part of their services. If you’re securing this report independently, you will need the vehicle identification number (VIN).
Most reports offer valuable insights into the car’s past, including the odometer readings, accident history, salvage titles, and prior registrations (which can reveal previous ownership by rental agencies or leasing companies). This information is crucial in helping you decide whether to go ahead with the purchase.
Inspect the Exterior
Walk around the vehicle and look for signs such as chipped paint, dents, mismatched body panels, cracked windows, or damaged lights. You can further investigate by checking for gaps between body panels, which could indicate post-accident repair work. Carry a small magnet to test the metal body; if there’s filler present from damage repairs, the magnet won’t stick.
Inspect the Interior
Check for signs such as a sagging headliner, cracks in the dashboard, or missing buttons and knobs. Heavy wear on the floor pedals or a drooping driver’s seat might suggest high mileage. If the airbag warning light is illuminated, that likely indicates prior deployment and improper replacement. Use your sense of smell to detect musty odors, which could imply water damage.
Also, look for signs of water leaks. Discolored carpeting, debris in unusual spots—particularly in the trunk—or electrical malfunctions indicate possible flood or water-related damage.
Evaluate the Engine
The engine is the heart of the vehicle, making it critical to inspect. Start by checking the radiator and battery for any corrosion or grease. Ensure that belts and hoses are neither hard nor excessively worn. Be alert for wet spots that may indicate fluid or oil leaks.
If you come across melted electrical wires, this could point to overheating issues or fire hazards. After allowing the engine to cool, inspect all fluid levels and check for any clear leaks.
Examine the Undercarriage
Inspect the tires for even tread wear. It’s essential that all tires display a similar amount of wear. Additionally, ensure that the steering shows no excessive slack. Push down on each fender to test the suspension. If the car bounces too much after being pressed down, you may soon need to replace the shocks. A quick rebound indicates that all is likely well.
Inspect the Exhaust
Depress the accelerator several times to check for smoke emissions from the tailpipe. Significant amounts of black smoke could signify issues with the air filter or other complications. Blue smoke, on the other hand, indicates burning oil, which could lead to major engine repairs.
Get a Thorough Inspection by a Trusted Mechanic
If you lack mechanical knowledge, it’s advisable to have a trusted mechanic conduct a comprehensive inspection of the vehicle. While this may incur a cost ranging from $50 to $200 or more, consider it a worthwhile investment in a significant purchase. An experienced mechanic can identify potential problems you might miss and provide clarity about the vehicle’s actual condition.
Take It for a Test Drive
Understanding what to look for during your test drive is crucial. This experience is your best opportunity to gauge how well the car meets your expectations. It’s also a final chance to confirm that everything operates correctly. Don’t get distracted by the radio or CD player—focus on the essentials, turning them off during your drive.
Inside the vehicle, ensure that the heater, mirrors, and wipers are functioning correctly, along with any other features. While driving, assess the smoothness of the ride, the handling, and overall drivability. Confirm that the brakes are responsive and stop the car effectively. Check the instrument panel for proper functioning, and make sure the steering feels smooth. If everything aligns with your expectations, it might be time to negotiate!
If you’ve purchased a vehicle—new or used—and it’s exhibiting problems like overheating, transmission issues, or faulty brakes, it’s crucial for you to refer to California’s Lemon Law and take the necessary actions!
