Five Ways to Ensure You Don’t Purchase a Used Sour Car

Cars have an interesting way of playing tricks on us. One minute you’re handed the keys to your “new to you” car and the next you’re bringing it into the shop. But, that’s how cars function. After so many years of usage and an increase in mileage, parts are bound to breakdown and need to be replaced or fixed. However, there’s a difference between your used car experiencing common wear and tear over time and your car operating poorly.

Unfortunately, each year many Pennsylvania drivers are handed the keys to a used lemon without realization. Sure, the car looks great in that shiny coat of paint, which the seller most likely just washed. But, as the common expression goes, “It’s what’s underneath that counts.” So, what’s really hiding under that beautiful car sitting in front of you?

If you’re in the market to purchase a used car, to avoid falling into the trap of purchasing a lemon, below are five ways to spot a lemon.

Perform a background check

Once you find a car you’re interested in, you should do a background check on the car. This includes checking the vehicle’s history as well as any recalls. You can obtain a history report of the vehicle from the dealership as well as online by typing in the car’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) or registration number. To determine if any recalls were issued, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) lists all recalls, which you can find online or by contacting the NHTSA. You can also ask the seller for recall service documents.

Read the sticker on the window

Attached to the car window should be a sticker stating if the car is being sold “as is” or with a warranty. This information is important because if the sticker says “as is,” then the seller makes no guarantee to the conditioner of the car.

Therefore, any issues that arise will be your responsibility. And, if you have a warranty, make sure it is the remainder of or an extended manufacturer’s warranty, thus ensuring if something goes wrong, you can take the car to a manufacturer’s authorized dealership to handle it.

Examine the interior and exterior parts

While the outside of the car may look nice, make sure you take a good, close look at the exterior of the car. Keep your eyes open for any oddly or misplaced parts as each part of the vehicle should line up with the next. Also, take a good look at the wheels as the wear should be the same on both sides of each.

When examining the interior, check under the hood to check the battery, radiator, and engine and look for any wet or leaky spots. As you look at the interior, ensure that the seatbelts function properly, and be aware of any damaged or broken switches such as door locks, window buttons, and the light switch.

Check the steering and hit the gas

While the car is idle, check the steering by turning the wheel left and right. Take note of any odd noises or odd feelings when turning the steering wheel. These may be signs that the steering wheel is worn or damaged internally.

Visit a mechanic

Because there are various parts that make up a car, particularly internal parts that are hard to notice, you should take the car to a mechanic. The mechanic will be able to easily spot obvious signs of a lemon, as well as dig deep into the car internally and find any issues. If a dealer really isn’t trying to sell you a lemon, they will have no problem if you ask that the car be inspected by a mechanic.

Additionally, always remember that, although used cars are not covered under the PA Lemon law, the federal Magnuson Moss Warranty Act may provide relief. If you find your car operating inefficiently and the seller refuses to refund your money, then seek the legal help of an attorney.