Performance Auto

Performance Auto

Performance Auto

When buying a used car, its always in your best interests to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified auto mechanic before signing on the dotted line. In some situations, such as if you plan to purchase a car from an auction, a professional auto inspector isn’t an option. While there is no surefire way to avoid accidentally buying a lemon, there are warning signs you can look for when conducting your self-inspection on the vehicle that will save you from making a costly buying mistake.

Check the Oil

Checking a used car’s oil before buying it seems like a no-brainer, but thousands of consumers neglect to do this. Clean engine oil does not guarantee that a used car has been well-maintained by the previous owners, but low oil levels, dark, gunk-filled oil or oil with white flecks in it guarantees that it hasn’t. Oil problems are a warning sign that could indicate further engine trouble. Thus, checking the condition of the car’s engine oil should be your first step.

Also look beneath the vehicle and under the hood for evidence of an oil leak. Oil leaks don’t improve – they get worse over time.