How to Identify If the Car Had the Mishap in the Past

It can be a minefield of deception to buy a used vehicle in this age and day. This is why, it is very important to follow some steps in the process of vehicle inspection. If these steps are overlooked, many problems can crop up later date on and they can be very expensive to repair. Sellers are always looking to get the highest possible price for their vehicle, so it is very common to hear of them trying to conceal any potential issue that their vehicle may have.

There is a tendency for this to happen with performance vehicles and this is why, potential purchasers need to be extra careful. However, it may not be easy to identify a vehicle that has been recklessly driven or involved in an accident. Below we have mentioned some great tips to help you spot out if the car you are purchasing had been in a mishap.

Look out for any modifications

When an automobile has been modified to offer a higher level of performance than factory standard, there is more likelihood that it might have gone through a harsh treatment. Also, ensure to have a look at the receipts for all modifications. You must also have a look at the window discoloration or performance stickers where stickers may have once been.

Inspect the wheel arches

If the vehicle have mismatched tyres or tyres that have a great deal of wear and tear can be a giveaway. But many sellers realize this and take care to have the tyres replaced, if they appear to be worn-out. So, look up in the wheel bay and see if there is any rubber stuck to the top and back of the arch, rather than just inspecting the tyres. In case, if the driver has used the vehicle for burnouts, you will easily know.

Check the panels

Examine the exterior of the vehicle from various angles. If you discover any wavy panels, dents or areas with a rough paint finish. There may be chances that the vehicle has been patched up or been in a collision.  If there are any panels that are not aligned in a proper order, it may be a sign of low-grade work.

Check out the engine bay

Generally it is easy to spot out the auto engines that have been mishandled. Make sure to have a good look through the engine bay and keep out an eye for excessive wear, oil leaks or cracks in rubber areas. It is equally important to be cautious of any parts that don't seem to be original. Some of the engine parts have a different extent of damage as compared to the rest of the engine.

Be sure to check the oil on the dipstick. If the oil appears thick, dark, thick or of low quality, you may have a good idea that the automobile has not been looked after properly. When an automobile is well-maintained it should easily start, therefore, be sure to turn the engine over. Also, be cautious of vehicles that already are  warm because a cold start can help to identify an issue in the engine.

Look out the interior

An automobile that is properly taken care of, have a clean interior. Thus, make sure to have a look at the condition of the seats for stains, split seams and discoloration. If the pedals are heavily worn-out, you may know that the automobile has gone through some heavy treatment. Always ensure to include the foot wells in your checks. The automobile should smell new, not show any fear and it should also not have any cigarette burns.

Test-drive the car

Before you buy any car, always take it for a test drive. Remember to turn the radio off, so you can clearly hear any noise in the engine or in any other parts of the automobile. Check out any rattling or squeaking noises and push the vehicle through all its gears. Be sure to test the suspension on the speed humps and look out for any smoke coming from the exhaust.

Be a smart buyer

If you have properly looked over the automobile, but still not convinced about whether you should buy it or not, you may do a few things for peace of mind. Firstly, watch the attitude of the seller towards the car. Does he or she have good knowledge about the automobile and looked after it genuinely? Does the vehicle’s actual condition match with the details presented in its advertisement?

Getting a title checked with car wreckers could be the best option if the vehicle has ever got the salevage title or not.
Also, take your time to Google the vehicle’s registration, particularly if it has customized plates.

Last but not the least, remember to have a look at the car service history reports and receipts.