Buying a used car can be a daunting task. It is difficult for the typical individual to recognize the warning signs and when to ignore them.
However, professionals know exactly what looks nice and what doesn’t. Fortunately, a qualified mechanic offered one helpful suggestion to help you choose the best course of action, and he said, “Walk away” if you follow it.
Tips for buying a used vehicle
In a video uploaded to TikTok, @jackofallbeards used a Jeep as an example.
“This Jeep Cherokee (2015) has 159,000 miles on it.
There will be a lot of cars like this available right now,” he predicts. “It’s not that car specifically, but it’s got it – I want you to watch the oil on the dipstick.” Near-flawless, quite tidy That doesn’t raise any red flags in itself.
The 2015 Jeep appears to be in running condition. The mechanic revealed that the used car had a serious problem. Subsequently, one that could eventually result in a more expensive used car. He gives viewers the opportunity to see the oil dipstick in the video to illustrate his point. “See how it’s stringing? That indicates some really thick material has been added. He’ll tell. “If you ever see oil pouring out of the oil cap like that, run away.
While the second-hand car seems to start easily, @jackofallbeards notes, “Needs an engine,” referring to the Jeep. The mechanic goes on to say in the second video that he thinks the last owner “used a thicker oil to fix a problem that could have been a quick fix but left a major problem.”
Buying a used car should often be cheaper than buying a new one.
However, the used car had its previous owners. In addition to believing that the previous owners took the utmost care in maintaining the vehicle, one needs to feel comfortable when buying a used car. Not only @jackofallbeards, but other mechanics and car experts can offer invaluable advice when buying a used vehicle.
Others offer their opinions
According to the car enthusiast, an independent repair shop should always carry out a professional inspection before buying a used car.
They specify that it is probably a “lemon car” if the dealer refuses.
Viewing cars only during the day is another wise tip in the interim. This is because details such as scratches, scuffs, and mismatched paint are more difficult to see at night. Next, go through the used car bolts; if they “look like there’s a wrench on them” or if the paint is peeling, it may mean a major repair has been done.
“Remove the rubber door trim. not the body but the ones on the doors. especially the rear. This is where you’ll find hidden rust. Even the current owner won’t know about it.
Rear wheel drive vehicles should disconnect the differential Check if it’s filled with oil, and check the condition of the driven rubber bellows shafts, if the vehicle is a front-wheel drive, they will come to the following conclusion: “The Citron would be greasy. The transmission is silent thanks to this lubricant. You might be surprised by the number of used cars sold like this.”
Someone else will tell you that a used car needs good tires. Conversely, if the tires are cheap or odd brands, it probably means that cheap parts and “poor workmanship” have been used on the rest of the vehicle.
@jackofallbeards Cant stress this enough…. Do your research and befriend a knowledgeable and HONEST mechanic! #carbuyingtips #carsales #dealershiplife #junk #certifiedshitbox #iykyk ♬ original sound – Jackofallbeards
Be careful when choosing a car dealer
Buying a used car can often seem like a daunting task, especially for individuals who may not be well-versed in automotive mechanics. The risk of purchasing a vehicle with hidden problems is significant, but fortunately, there is expert knowledge available to help you navigate this complex process.
Advice from @jackofallbeards, a mechanic on TikTok, highlights a critical red flag to look out for when inspecting a used car: the oil level on the dipstick. If the oil appears thick and stringy, this is a strong indication that a thicker oil may have been used to mask underlying engine problems. This type of quick fix can lead to more difficult and expensive repairs. Therefore, potential buyers are advised to “walk away” if they encounter this issue.
Aside from this particular tip, there are several other crucial factors to consider when buying a used vehicle. A thorough inspection at an independent repair shop is essential; a seller who refuses such an inspection may be hiding serious defects. Viewing the car in daylight can reveal details that aren’t visible at night, such as scratches, dents, and paint inconsistencies.
Also, the recommended steps are checking the bolts for signs of recent repairs and checking for hidden rust under the door rubber trim. For vehicles with rear-wheel drive, it is advisable to check the differential for the presence of oil, and for vehicles with front-wheel drive, to evaluate the condition of the rubber bellows of the drive shaft. If any of these areas show signs of tampering or poor maintenance, it may indicate that the car has undergone substandard repairs.
In addition, a tire check can provide insight into overall vehicle maintenance. Quality tires indicate that the car was cared for by the previous owner, while cheap or mismatched tires may indicate cost-cutting and lack of maintenance in the past. Such details can significantly affect the long-term reliability and safety of the vehicle.
Choosing a reputable car dealer is also crucial in this process. A trusted dealer will be transparent about the car’s history and condition, giving potential buyers confidence in their purchase.
By following these expert recommendations and performing a thorough inspection, buyers can better protect themselves from purchasing a problem vehicle and ensure that they are making a wise investment in their used car purchase.