What to Look for When Buying a Used Car

It’s no secret that buying a car, whether new or used, is one of the biggest and most important purchases a person will make in their lifetime. By knowing what to look for when buying a used car, you will ensure you get a good value, make a sound investment, and end up with a vehicle you can rely on the streets of Peoria. Here is a brief guide to help you inspect and buy with confidence.

Exterior

Start by taking a look at the outside of the vehicle— being mindful of any cosmetic issues that might signal a larger problem. This includes dents, uneven body panels, and cracked or broken auto glass.

Next, go in for a closer look at some of the exterior components:

• Doors, Hood, & Trunk Open each one to test the hinges and make sure everything fully opens, closes, and latches as it should.
• Headlights, Taillights, & Turn Signals Check that each one is fully illuminated and operational.
• Suspension Test the suspension by lightly bouncing each corner of the vehicle; if a corner only bounces once, the suspension is likely in good shape.
• Under the Hood Look for a clean engine and intact hoses that are pliable but firm to the touch.
• Underneath the Car Inspect the tailpipe and chassis to check that they’re not bent or cracked, and look at the ground underneath for any fluid leaks.
• Windows Roll the windows up and down to verify they’re working and closing/sealing properly.

Interior

The interior can also give you insight into the vehicle’s condition, specifically the:

• Air Conditioner & Heater Turn them on and confirm they’re producing warm/cool air.
• Roof Inspect the roof liner for any sags or stains, as these could indicate a leak.
• Seats Try out the seats to make sure they’re comfortable and free of damage.

What to Ask When Buying a Used Car Near Bloomington

If you’re wondering what to ask when buying a used car, inquire about any of the above areas, as well as:

• Is there a history of maintenance?
• Is the vehicle history report available?
• What is the ownership history?
• What is the vehicle’s mileage?
• Are there any current recalls on the vehicle?
• Is the car as is, or is it under warranty?

Find Your Next Used Car at Ray Dennison Buick GMC

Now that you know what to look for when buying a used car in Pekin, let us make the car-buying process easy and stress-free. We have a large used inventory, and our certified pre-owned vehicles have passed a rigorous inspection process. Schedule a test drive today.