Turning to used and previously owned vehicles is a common way to save money when you need a new car. Whether it’s a private sale from another car owner, or an approved used car from the manufacturer, opting for a pre-owned and pre-loved vehicle can often be necessary. However, while many sellers are honest about the vehicles and any features or downfalls it may have, some may attempt to hide issues that could lead to costly repairs down the line. As the buyer, knowing what to look for can help you avoid spending your money on a vehicle that could have hidden damage. Here, we’ve gathered seven key signs of damage or issues to look out for when inspecting your potential new vehicle.
Mismatched or Uneven Paintwork
One clear indicator of previous damage on a pre-loved vehicle is mismatched or uneven paintwork anywhere on the vehicle. If the paint colour isn’t quite right, or the smooth finish you expect is absent, this could be a sign that something happened to the vehicle previously that has been repaired. You should look for differences in colour or texture between panels of the vehicle, overspray on trims, glass and seals, and any paint that might look newer or a different shade on one part of the car compared to another. Repainted areas can hide structural damage or rust, but can also be a sign of poor-quality repairs.
Signs of Rust
Rust on any vehicle, new or used, can be a serious cause for concern. Any amount of rust can be a sign that the car’s structural integrity is compromised or deteriorating and when left too long, can lead to extensive and often costly repairs. When inspecting your potential new car, you should check for rust:
- Under the car, particularly near and within wheel wells
- The undercarriage and exhaust system
- Around door frames
- In the trunk
- Under the bonnet
- In any areas where the paint is chipped or bubbling, or follows any signs of mismatched or uneven paintwork.
Surface rust can often be dealt with easily and may not be a dealbreaker for purchasing the vehicle, but extensive signs of rust can make the car unsafe to drive or expensive to fix.
Structural or Frame Damage
If the vehicle you’re looking to buy has been in an accident or had damage in the past, the structural integrity of the frame could be compromised. Any damage from previous collisions can considerably affect the car’s handling and safety. Any compromised structure or frame can lead to alignment issues and reduce the protection your vehicle offers if you were to crash. You can spot structural issues by looking for uneven gaps between panels, doors that won’t close properly, creases or bends anywhere on the vehicle including underneath, or welds or repairs that look out of place or poorly completed.
Worn or Mismatched Tyres
The condition of the tyres on a used car can tell you a surprising amount about the condition of the vehicle, and how well it has been looked after in it’s lifespan. They can also give you an insight into whether there are any potential alignment issues. Uneven tyre wear is one of the easiest-to-spot signs that there may be alignment problems or suspension issues with your potential new vehicle. Mismatched brands or size tyres may also be a sign that corners were cut during maintenance and repairs, as well as any cracks or signs of rot within the rubber, which have the potential to lead to blowout. If the tyres are in poor condition, you should consider how much replacing the tyres will cost and whether this is within the budget for your new car.
Fluid Leaks
Fluid leaks are a concern for car owners across the country, whether that’s coolant, oil, transmission fluid or even fuel. A leak can be a sign of a serious problem, or lead to expensive repairs. Some fluid leaks can even be signs of serious engine issues. You should check under the vehicle for signs of puddles or stains, including brake fluids, coolant and oil, and take a look at the engine bay for the same. Having a look at seals and gaskets can also give you an insight into whether anything is dripping or has been leaking over time. Strong, burning smells could also indicate leaks, as can sweet-smelling residues.
Interior Water Damage
The exterior isn’t the only concern when buying a new car – you need to take a look at the interior too. Water damage inside your vehicle could cause or show signs of potential electrical problems, unpleasant odours and mould growth. You can check for water damage by checking under floor mats and in the boot for any discolouration or damp spots. You should keep an eye out for any signs of mildew, musty smells or rust, particularly around the brakes or seat frames. The headliner could also have damage, so check for water stains for signs of leaking sunroofs or windshields. Flood or water-damaged cars often have long-term issues that can affect the structural integrity of the vehicle, and can be expensive to repair, so it’s important to be thorough in your checks.
Take It For A Test Drive
If a seller is unwilling to let you take the vehicle for a test drive, this could be a sign that they are hiding something. A test drive is a core and necessary way to not only determine if it’s the right car for you, but that there aren’t any performance or safety issues. When test-driving the vehicle, you could keep an eye or ear out for:
- Knocking or tapping sounds from the engine – this could be sign of internal damage
- Squealing or grinding when braking – this could be a sign of worn brake pads or rotors
- Clunking or rattling noises, particularly when turning – this could be a suspension or steering issue
- Any unusual vibrations or delays – this could signal issues with the gearbox or clutch
If you’ve recently bought a used vehicle and aren’t sure if there are any issues, or you know that there are issues that need addressing, we are on hand to help. Get in touch with a member of our team to book your vehicle in for car repairs at your local Service4Service garage at a time that suits you.