Craigslist offers many different used cars. You should pay attention to several things when purchasing a used vehicle.
1. Exterior
The exterior of a Craigslist car should be the first thing that you check. There should be no dents on the panels. Unlike rust, small scratches don’t cause a lot of concern. You should also check the wheel wells, rocker panels and other areas. All doors, the trunk and the roof should be opened and closed.
2. Engine
You should always check the engine after it has cooled. It’s common to see some dirt or dust. There may be an issue if oil is spilled on the car or the ground. Check for a loose or corroded wire and battery.
3. Tires and Wheels
Both sides of the car should have an equal amount of tread wear. If the exterior is worn out, it could be that the vehicle was driven hard. Also, the spare tire must be in good working order.
4. Windshield
If you notice any pitting or cracks on the glass, it is worth checking. It may seem like a minor chip, but you can use it to negotiate on the price. Remember that cracks on any windshield can get worse over the years and result in expensive repairs in the future.
5. Oil Filter Dipstick
You should also check the oil. It should have a dark-brown color. It could indicate a crack if there is water or oil on the dipstick that appears gray or foamy. When wiping down the rags, they should not have any metal bits. This could indicate major problems.
6. Interior
You should smell the interior to check for any musty smells, as this could be a sign of a water leak. The rubber on the pedals and the upholstery of the seats should be in excellent condition. The roof shouldn’t droop and, if there is a sunroof on the vehicle, it should be easy to open and close.
7. Safety Features
It is important to check that safety features such as headlights and turning signals work properly before buying a car. The antilock brakes of the vehicle should also be tested. The muffler and horn both need to be in working order.
8. Electrical Components
Many vehicles contain several electronic items. It is important that the automatic window and door functions work properly. Also, the stereo system must work correctly. Test any electrical extras, like an alarm system or keyless access.
9. Manufacturer’s Emblem
The Manufacturer’s Emblem is located in most cases on the driver door. The vehicle should not show signs of tampering. The VIN number and the date the vehicle was manufactured should be clearly visible.
10. Heater and air conditioner
Allow the engine to warm up before examining the heater and A/C. It should start immediately when you turn on the A/C. It is very expensive to fix a unit that appears broken. Test the heat by turning the fan at all speeds. The air that is being pushed may be moist. This could indicate that the heater core is leaking.