Buyer's Guide: 8 things to inspect when buying a used car
By Kijiji AutosThere’s so much to choose from and an almost endless number of models, but it all boils down to your own tastes and needs. Once you’ve unearthed that rare gem, it would benefit you to take a few precautions before making your purchase.
1- Study the CARFAX Canada report
CARFAX Canada is a report that’s often provided by the seller, or you can easily order one online for a few dollars. Simply enter the used vehicle’s identification number, and you’ll receive a detailed overview of the car’s history. The report will also tell you whether there are any payments outstanding on the car. If so, be sure to obtain a quittance releasing you from any charges once the purchase is final, because if the vehicle has been used as collateral against an unpaid loan by the previous owner, you may be obliged to give it up without getting a cent of your money refunded.
2- Ask to see the maintenance booklet
Conscientious owners follow the maintenance schedule recommended by the manufacturer. And while most sellers may not keep detailed notes of the dates and work carried out, they likely have a few invoices that will give you information about maintenance activities. So don’t hesitate to ask whether the car has been serviced in recent months.
3- Do a visual inspection
Never buy a used vehicle in the evening after dark! In the daylight, you can do an initial visual inspection, which will give you plenty of information. The condition of the tires, for example, will tell you how the vehicle has been treated (tires with excessive or uneven wear may indicate neglect or mechanical problems). Check the windows to ensure they function properly; try out the headlights, brake lights and signals; and take a good look in the wheel wells and even under the chassis to make sure there isn’t too much corrosion.
4- Climb inside
As with a house, the inside of a car says a lot about its owner and the overall condition of the car. A strong, damp odour may be a sign of a problem with the ventilation system or carpets. Checking the state of the seats and the amount of support they offer is also a must. A little wear or a few scratches on the vinyl are to be expected.
5- Take a test drive
You wouldn’t buy a pair of shoes without first trying them on and walking around in them. You should take a test drive to get a feel for how the car accelerates and handles, its comfort level, how the brakes respond, and how the engine sounds.
6- Have the vehicle inspected
You have the right and even a responsibility to turn to an independent mechanic for an inspection of the vehicle. It’s the best way to know what you’re getting into.
7- Check for extras
The car is great, but do you find the price a touch high? Check to see what’s included. Extras like a roof rack or winter tires can affect the purchase price.
8- Do the math
Once all the inspections are done, compare your vehicle with similar ones on the market and Kijiji Autos. Some dealers offer leases on used cars, but this tends to be rare. Personal loans or car loans offered by your financial institution are often the best option.
Be sure to keep one aspect in mind: the purchase of a used vehicle will often get you the car of your dreams, with just a few kilometres on the odometer.
Easily find your next ride on Kijiji Autos
Search nowCoupe vs Sedan: What’s The Difference?
Coupes and sedans can both provide you with practical, fuel efficient transport that can also be fun to drive. Both body styles have their advantages and drawbacks depending on what you’re looking for in a new vehicle. In this article we’ll examine the differences between coupes and sedans and define both vehicles with examples.Is it hard to drive an SUV?
if you're stopping yourself from buying an SUV because you're afraid it's more difficult to maneuver, you'll be pleased to know that's not the case. In fact, first-time drivers will find driving an SUV no more challenging than smaller vehicles like sedans, as long as they follow a few tips outlined below.Sedan vs SUV: Which one is right for you?
Sedans and SUVs are two of the most popular kinds of vehicle on the market today. This article will examine the different characteristics of sedans and SUVs, highlighting the areas in which each shines and where their shortcomings lie to help you make the right choice on your next vehicle.Top 11 SUVs for Winter Driving in Canada
SUVs are some of the best-suited vehicles for winter conditions with a wealth of standard and available features to help you stay in control and get where you're going when the temperature plummets below zero. Here are 11 of the top SUVs for winter driving.Your Guide to Hatchback Cars in Canada
Hatchback cars are defined by their tailgate, which raises up to give access to the rear cargo area. Hatchbacks can feature two or four doors plus the tailgate, and follow what's known as a two-box design. The engine compartment at the front of the car makes up one box, with the second comprising the passenger cabin and cargo area.10 affordable convertible cars in Canada
It may be cliché, but there honestly is nothing like feeling the wind in your hair as you cruise down the highway in a convertible with the top down. Here, we explore 10 affordable convertible cars (in no particular order) to inspire you to dive into Kijiji Autos' listings and find your next vehicle.10 popular full size vans for your family or business
Whether you need to transport people or goods, a large van can be a practical choice. You might be wondering who makes full size vans or what is the best full size for family. Here are 10 of the top big vans for sale in Canada in 2022, in no particular order:10 popular luxury vehicles in Canada
From luxury family cars to executive sedans, luxury sports cars to the latest electric vehicles, Kijiji Autos has a fantastic selection of new and used luxury cars for sale in your area. Here are 10 of the top-selling luxury vehicles in Canada, in no particular order:10 New Cars that have a good resale value
While it is true that a used vehicle rarely resells for the original ticket price, there are plenty of cars that hold value even after being driven.A quick guide to van life: 10 of the best vans to live in
Dreaming of a simpler life? Love travelling but hate sleeping in a different bed every night? Maybe it's time to embrace #vanlife, a lifestyle trend that answers the call of the open road.