Probably, any person living in a modern society, at least once in his life, thought about buying a personal vehicle. And if you can't afford a new car, the thought of choosing a used car doesn't seem all that daunting. After all, today's life is quite dynamic, and very often we simply do not have time to cope with the accumulated cases, moving on foot or by public transport.

Not a luxury, but a means of transportation

An important incentive for purchasing a personal car is the eternal human desire to improve the level of comfort. Traveling in your car is incomparable to traveling in stuffy buses and route taxis... Among other things, in modern world a car is no longer a luxury, but its presence still emphasizes status. And if you add up all these facts, a simple idea becomes clear: buying your own transport is, if not the main, then, of course, an important life goal of almost every citizen.

True, it must be admitted that this task requires serious financial costs. In other words, the primary question for a potential buyer is: "What kind of car to buy?" How to choose a used car? Or is it new?

And I want and inject

Of course, if funds permit, you can go to any car dealership and buy new car... It is easier, more convenient and eliminates many of the purely technical problems... The procedure does not take much time. And in general, the policy of almost all car dealerships is aimed at making the choice of a car as easy as possible and facilitating its design. In this case, the buyer can determine not only the affordable price range, but also various pleasant trifles, additional technical functions... None of this is available if we are trying to figure out how to choose a used car.

An important aspect in the case of purchasing a new car is the manufacturer's warranty. This can seriously protect the consumer for several years from the manifestation of all kinds of defects that went unnoticed in production (which is not available after choosing a used BMW or others).

Used - Affordable

It would seem that the choice is obvious in favor of buying a new car. But, unfortunately, such pleasure is not available to everyone. Prices for new cars are far from the real salaries of the average citizen. And the desire to acquire a four-wheeled friend from this does not diminish. The way out of this situation is quite simple. You need to buy something that you have enough money actually earned. That is a used car. With such a purchase, there are a number of nuances that are worth focusing on.

If the decision to buy a used car has matured and took shape in a very specific amount, then first you need to clearly understand for yourself the essence of the future purchase. Namely - for what purposes do you need a car. This will make it clear how to choose the right used car to stop at. the best option without additional financial risks.

Service costs

The experts in this field remind you that maintaining a used car will fall entirely on your own or family budget. Indeed, in this case, it makes no sense to demand the fulfillment of warranty obligations from manufacturing firms. As a rule, a used car has not been under warranty service for a long time. Probably, there is no need to explain that the cost of component parts for future repairs for imported and domestic machines differs significantly.

Therefore, before choosing a used car, you need to decide directly with the country that released this mechanism. It is these two factors: the country of origin and the purpose of travel by car - that will allow you to solve the problem in the shortest possible time and at minimal cost.

A simple example

Let's consider the simplest and cheapest option for solving the problem "how to choose a used car". You are a pedestrian by nature and you spend a lot of time in active recreation associated with walking. The nearest supermarket is under your house, and you don't need to make huge purchases. But you have a suburban area that is too far from your home. Of course, you can use public transport.

But what to do at harvest time? How do you bring home the fruits of your seasonal work? Hiring truck will nullify all efforts to minimize costs. It is extremely inconvenient to carry the entire volume in the hands. How to choose the right used car for such a purpose?

There is an option for purchasing an inexpensive domestic car. It will be operated, as a rule, in the summer. And the main function is a small truck for transporting the harvested crop. Such a car will not be too expensive, but this does not mean at all that its choice should be taken lightly.

Choosing products from a domestic manufacturer

How to choose a used VAZ car and not fall for the bait of all kinds of swindlers? To do this, you need to understand what difficulties you may encounter when buying it.

Experienced motorists say that the main problem lies, oddly enough, in the design. As a rule, such a car is sold by power of attorney without being deregistered from the state, reasonably arguing for the high cost of the legal procedure itself. Sometimes it can exceed the price of the car itself. In this case, it is advisable to purchase cars taken off the state register, which are much less on sale. With some tenacity, you can find them. And here you will benefit: the owners of VAZs who deregister their cars are usually very neat people. Those. the car will be in good "physical" shape. It is extremely impractical to engage in the very re-registration of such transport (from a financial point of view). Therefore to legal registration deals must be taken seriously to avoid potential problems associated with this machine's past.

What to look for in the back

But how do you choose a used car? TO technical inspection machines need to be taken even more seriously than legal registration. It's no secret that most of the requirements are imposed on the body. Experienced car enthusiasts even call it a basic part. In the case of a domestic unit, everything is quite simple.

The body should not bear elements of corrosion, obvious dents and damage to the paintwork (paintwork). This is usually visible with the naked eye, because no one will carry out serious paintwork with this class of machines. The cost of a branded paint can exceed the cost of a car. If, during inspection, obvious defects were found, you can significantly reduce the purchase price during further bargaining.

How to check the engine of the selected car

The technical requirements for such a car are minimal. Experts propose to proceed from the normal state of the main technical components: the engine and the chassis of the machine. Here are some rules on how to choose a used Kalina, for example.

The engine should be started, as they say, "cold". In this case, ignition defects will immediately be revealed, if any, and the general condition will become clear by the sound of idle. power unit... Checking the oil and coolant levels is a good idea. By the way, by their color you can determine the approximate wear of the entire mechanism. Black and gasoline-smelling oil with foreign bodies is a very bad sign. This means that the lubricating fluid no longer fulfills its functions, and as a result of friction, the destruction of the contacting metal surfaces began.

The worst option for the engine unit is the ingress of coolant into the oil. It is impossible to hide this fact. Because the white bloom that forms when the two compounds are mixed is very clearly visible on the dipstick for measuring the oil level. This means that the gasket between the cylinder block and the top of the engine has burst and needs to be replaced. Such a motor, even with modest discussed requirements, will not work for a long time.

When testing the propulsion system, smoke from exhaust pipe, which can be observed in different modes of operation. This phenomenon indicates wear on the piston rings and indicates serious temporary changes in the mechanisms.

The engine must be in working order, work smoothly in any modes, not "triple" or malfunction when the gas pedal is pressed sharply. In this case, you can close your eyes to a small clatter of the piston or valve group.

How to check the chassis of a selected RWD car

When studying how to choose the right used car, remember: self-diagnosis of the chassis of such a car is very simple. To identify defects, you need to drive on your future car several kilometers on a rough road.

If there is a malfunction of the rear-wheel drive VAZ chassis, you will immediately hear a characteristic hum coming from the rear of the car. As a rule, this is how a worn gearbox makes noise. rear axle... You can ride with this for a while, but you need to remember that the replacement will cost you a tidy sum and take a lot of time. Based on this, you can achieve a significant discount on the initial cost of the car.

A characteristic gurgling clatter in the front of the car when the wheel hits a bump in most cases will indicate a malfunction of the ball bearings. Their repair will not require large costs, but it is necessary to carry out it due to the accident rate of the wheel.

How to check the chassis of a selected front wheel drive vehicle

If you are experiencing a front-wheel drive VAZ, then remember the conditions of how to choose a used "Prior", for example. The most common chassis defect in such cars is the wear of the front CV joints or grenades, as motorists call them. Checking the technical condition of the grenade is quite simple. Unscrew the steering wheel to the ground in any direction and try to start abruptly from a place in this position. If the CV joint is faulty, you will hear a characteristic crackling sound in the front of the car, depending on the side where the steering wheel is turned. When noise is present on both sides, this is a rather serious defect in the chassis, which can lead to additional financial investments. And the safety of driving such a car is rather dubious. Here it will be appropriate to simply refuse to purchase.

These are the main and rather simple secrets of how to choose a used VAZ. However, the same testing methods apply to foreign cars as well. Remember them and you will buy exactly what you need.

Domestic all-terrain vehicle: what to look for

There are some technical moments, requiring close attention if you are wondering how to choose a used "Niva". Here it must be remembered that this is already, rather, a crossover than an ordinary one. a car... Therefore, special attention should be paid to the chassis of the intended purchase.

In order to cheerfully storm the curbs and irregularities of the suburban surface, it is better to immediately get the expert opinion on the reliability of all the suspension arms of such a VAZ. Otherwise, there is a risk, as in the case of the motor system, to pay a tidy sum for repairs immediately after the purchase.

However, all the risks described above do not detract from the merits of this particular choice. It is optimal for those who are new to the wheel and want to improve their skills at a relatively low cost.

Making money with a used car - myth or reality

Quite a large segment modern business occupy trucking. More and more people appear who have decided to earn their living by delivering goods in cities. This is a relatively small tonnage - from about 500 kg to 2 tons. A truck manufactured in Russia under the Gazelle brand is ideal for these purposes. As a rule, to start such a business, it is better to buy a new car with a gas installation.

But if, nevertheless, a brand new car is not affordable, and you are thinking more and more about how to choose a used Gazelle, then it is better to discard the idea as unpromising. Cars of this class are sold with the maximum wear of almost all technical units, the repair of which is very significant in terms of investment.

It is hard to disagree that starting a business by repairing its main component is at least strange. The best way out in this situation is to find and apply for a profitable loan to buy a new car. But this is already a topic for a completely different article.

Buying a foreign car

Perhaps the most interesting and attractive component of sales for most motorists is used foreign cars. There is an opinion among experienced drivers that any, even the most ancient car, made outside of our vast homeland, is much better than new domestic models. Say, it is more comfortable and more convenient, and most importantly, much more reliable than all our VAZ and GAZ vehicles. It is difficult to argue with this, and it is not necessary. It is best to trust your own experience or the advice of specialists in these matters.

The main trap for a car enthusiast who decides to buy a foreign four-wheeled friend and does not know how to choose a used Renault Logan, for example, lies in the small amount of funds that he is willing to spend on the coveted purchase. Blinded by the desire to get behind the wheel of a prestigious car, a person very often turns a blind eye to various trifles associated with such an acquisition.

Find a foreign car without a past

Basically, all used foreign cars are imported into our territory from Europe. It is important for the future buyer to understand that not all cars are delivered legally. There may be several surprises that are far from being the most pleasant for potential buyers.

Firstly, a car can be trite on the wanted list. You buy such a car by power of attorney, and at the first scheduled stop on the road, you can check it on the Interpol database. And if she's hijacked, believe me, you're in big trouble. And most importantly, after all contacts with law enforcement agencies, the car will still be seized. In this case, there will be no one to appeal to.

Secondly, there may be problems with customs clearance. As a rule, such cars have a temporary registration in the nearest EU countries. Such cars are much cheaper than those cleared and imported in accordance with all the rules. It is the low price that often attracts motorists who are tormented by the question of how to choose a used Logan.

It must be admitted that often such experiments end as badly as in the first case. Temporary registration is usually very short-lived. And after its completion, it will be necessary either to cross the border of the country where the car is registered, or to register it in your own country. Both in the first and in the second situation, serious costs are ahead. In any case, the difference that you managed to save when buying will have to pay extra.

Still, how to choose a used Renault Logan? As is the case with domestic brands, it is best to choose a car that is taken off any government register. When registering such a car, the law enforcement officers will check it at their bases and issue a permit for registration. Only after that, you can finally settle with the sellers and close the deal.

And do not forget that the answer to the question "how to choose a used foreign car" should take into account the cost of further Maintenance such a car. Quite often it happens that the initially low cost of a car is due precisely to the high cost of components for subsequent service. Therefore, it will not be superfluous to familiarize yourself with the reviews of people who have already bought such cars before buying, or consult at certified service centers serving the selected brand.

In conclusion, we note that when buying a used car, especially a foreign one, it is best to take it for a competent check to serious specialists of specialized service stations. If all of the above nuances are taken into account, then the car will serve you and your family for a very long time.

Buying an "iron horse" is an exciting and problematic business in many respects, especially for beginners. And when it comes to buying a used car, it can also be quite dangerous. The owner can provide an advertisement for the sale of a car with stories about a wonderful car in perfect condition and with zero mileage, but in fact, buyers often encounter hidden breakdowns and a completely repainted body.

To avoid such troubles, you should prepare in advance for choosing a vehicle. Tips on how to choose a used car will help the buyer not to become a hostage to the situation.

How to choose a used car

You shouldn't think "I'll spend 300,000, but I'll buy at least something." Before starting the search for a car, it is recommended to choose 3-4 brands according to your liking, or at least decide on a class. This will allow you to define a niche and not waste time on useless meetings.

The choice of a car entirely depends on its purpose and the financial capabilities of the buyer

So, the choice of a car class depends on the purpose for which it is purchased:

1. For commuting (city car). Cars fit class A-B not older than 10 years. The maximum allowable mileage is 200 thousand km. The gasoline consumption of such a car is 5-7 liters. It is better to leave your choice on the front wheel drive.
2. Work in a taxi. A potential taxi driver can use a class C "iron horse" with a mileage of no more than 100 thousand km. It is recommended to take front-wheel drive with good suspension condition. City consumption - 7-8 liters. Ideally, this is a car from a European or Japanese manufacturer.
3. Travels. For active travelers, the D-class sedan from Japan or Korea is the ideal solution. These are already more solid cars, which can also be affordable. The recommended mileage is less than 100 thousand km. Air conditioning, cruise control and automatic transmission are desirable.
4. Cross-country movement (hunting, fishing, frequent trips to nature). For such purposes, it is better to purchase an SUV. Preference should be given to models from Japan or Germany. Despite the high cost and increased consumption fuel, cars of this class are more reliable and less susceptible to chassis wear.

Where to find a used car

You can, of course, try to find a car through friends or trust word of mouth. But it's best to go to trusted sources. As a rule, used cars are found in dealerships or through specialized Internet services.

Dealer centers

Official dealers of various manufacturers located throughout Russia sell not only new cars. It is quite possible to buy a used car through them. good condition... This requires:

• Find in your city authorized dealer the brand you like;
• Find out if they sell used cars and contact the salon for advice;
• Select a model and check its condition (it is best to drive it to another dealership for an impartial assessment).

To find an authorized dealer, it is better to use the Internet

Internet services

It is best to choose a car not on the regional portal, but on the federal one, that is, working throughout Russia. This will allow you to compare prices across the country. Among the proven Internet car search services, the following should be highlighted:

1. Auto.ru. One of the oldest portals for searching used cars - it has been functioning for about 20 years, moreover, it is constantly evolving. Now most of the ads from Auto.ru are duplicated on auto.yandex.ru, making the site even more popular.
2. Avito.ru. The largest classifieds portal in Russia with a simple interface and a convenient selection of ads. Here you can buy not only a used but also a new car. There are some minor inconveniences - for example, the service does not allow you to select several models of different brands at once.
3. Drom.ru. A portal aimed specifically at buying / selling a car. It has been on the market for 16 years. At the beginning of the development, it was aimed only at Japanese cars, but over time it has become the most extensive base in all car classes. The site has an extensive forum for car enthusiasts where you can discuss a specific brand or seller.
4. Carsguru.net. Quite a popular portal that is only gaining momentum. At the beginning of the journey, it was aimed only at the Moscow market, but over time, new regions appeared.
5. Cars.ru. A young internet service with an eight-year history. The main goal is to buy and sell used cars.

What to ask by phone

You can weed out a lot of dubious ads already at the stage of ringing the owners, if you ask the right questions. So, by phone you can ask:

1. "Are you a car owner or an intermediary?" This question will clarify what nuances can be found here and now, and which ones will have to be clarified at the meeting. The owner must know everything about the car from A to Z, while the middleman knows only superficial information.
2. "Are you selling the car under a notarized power of attorney or will I conclude a deal with a third person - the owner himself?" The question follows from the previous one and is asked to the mediator. If the interlocutor answers "I have a copy of the owner's passport, we will draw up the contract in the office" - run. With a high degree of probability, this is an outbid, which, along with the car, took from the owner a copy of the passport and a receipt for money.
3. "How long is the car with the same owner?" Frequent resale in a short period should alert the buyer. The car is not resold so often without good reason - perhaps the technical condition is poor.
4. "Have there been any recent accidents?" If the car gets into a serious accident, then the body will be quite difficult to restore. Costly repairs may be required, so selling a vehicle may be a simple attempt to get rid of it.
5. "Has the car been painted?" In the case of a positive answer, there are suspicions that in this way the owner tried to hide rust on the body or traces of serious repairs.
6. "At the moment, what investments are required in the car for the body and chassis?" It is in the seller's interests to answer honestly, because these nuances will still be revealed during inspection. The answer will help you to immediately calculate the total cost of purchasing a car and repairing it.
7. "Is the price final or is it reasonable to bargain?" Be sure to clearly and loudly say out loud the price indicated in the ad. The seller is also a person and may well be sealed when submitting an advertisement, so it is better to find out any misunderstandings right away.

A phone call allows you to cut off suspicious sellers and save time on meetings

Despite such a thorough preliminary analysis, it is not worth making a final decision based solely on the results of a telephone conversation. It allows you to weed out dubious options. Decent options should be inspected on site.

It is important! The more potential sellers the buyer calls, the better. So he will be able to form his own idea of ​​the modern market, current supply and demand.

What to look for when buying

It is better for inexperienced motorists to take with them a trusted specialist who understands cars and could draw conclusions about technical condition object. Additionally, it is recommended to take with you:

• Small lantern;
• Thickness gauge;
• Small mirror;
• A set of screwdrivers and keys, a candle wrench;
• A clean rag.

The owner should have some items in stock, but it is better to play it safe and take your own.

Verification of documents

The very first detail when meeting with a potential seller is checking the documents for the vehicle. You need to carefully study:

1. PTS. If the place of issue in the passport is customs, or individual, which means that the document is original. If issued by the traffic police department, the passport is a duplicate, even if it is not marked anywhere. In addition, the TCP checks for the presence of corporate embossing and watermarks.
2. CTP policy. It checks the number of motorists who are allowed to drive a car. In addition, the presence of a mark on the possibility of using the car as a taxi is checked.
3. Registration certificate. STS will tell you the details of the owner, the exact date of registration of the vehicle with the traffic police, engine size and power. It is also necessary to verify the specified VIN number with what is stuffed on the body.
4. VIN number. It must be written down and checked on the official website of the traffic police for registration history, the presence of an accident, as well as for finding a car on the wanted list. Special attention pay attention to the number of fines, since if they exist, problems may arise with the registration of the vehicle.

The VIN number indicated on the body must be verified with the one indicated in the TCP and STS

You should not be afraid of a duplicate PTS, since the original can really be lost. However, there may be a catch in this option: for example, the car is involved in fraudulent activities, or the number of owners exceeds the number of fields in the vehicle title.

Body inspection

The body is the most voluminous, noticeable and dear part machine, therefore it is necessary to inspect it as carefully as possible. At the beginning it is worth going from the right front fender to the left front fender, paying attention to all the details. Inspection features include:

1. Examine the wings one by one. They should be smooth, free of dents, paint and varnish smudges. If traces of painting are found, draw the seller's attention to this and find out the reason. Perhaps the owner just wanted to change the color of the car or paint over minor scratches... In this case, you need to make sure that the paint is of good quality.
2. Inspection of the roof and its racks. These parts must not be painted. The pillars are load-bearing elements, and the roof is a very vulnerable part of the car body. If there was damage to these parts, the vehicle is most likely seriously injured in an accident.
3. Checking doors. Doors (like the bumper) are difficult to keep unpainted, especially when operating a vehicle in metropolitan areas. The quality of the painting must be checked. In addition, all doors must be closed completely with the same sound and force.
4. Checking the side members. Their color on both sides must be the same. If the units were repaired, then it is better to refuse the vehicle.
5. Thickness gauge measurements. To check the machine, it is recommended to rent a thickness gauge to find out exactly which elements have been painted. For reliable measurements, it is recommended to check in advance on the Internet the thickness of the paint of various body elements of this vehicle model.

There will be an error when using a thickness gauge in any case, so it is recommended to take several measurements in a row, and then calculate the arithmetic mean

You should also make sure that there are no inscriptions and stickers on any part of the body. They are usually disguises for significant damage. For the same purpose, wheel arches, plastic sills, moldings, spoilers and various linings are used.

Chassis

Self-diagnosis of a used car requires a mandatory check of the chassis. The best option is to drive the car onto an overpass or inspection pit and inspect it from below. It is necessary to diagnose the following components:

1. Levers and bushings. Parts should not be worn out, as well as have cracks and chips. The suspension arm can be pulled towards you to make sure it bounces into place. The sleeve must not rotate in the lugs.
2. Silent blocks. Check the part for knocking, gaps and mechanical damage. If there are cracks in metal parts or tears in rubber, replacement will be required. In this case, you can safely ask the seller for a discount for future maintenance.
3. Stabilizer's pole. To check them, a pole or iron rod is placed between the subframe and the bushing stabilizer. If the bushing is too old, the stabilizer will wobble.
4. Brake pads. They should be free of rubbing and rusty areas. If the buyer inspects the car with “stampings” instead of alloy wheels, the wheel will have to be removed to fully examine the system. Additionally, you should pay attention to the brake disc.

Carefully study the condition of the suspension assemblies with a flashlight

The easiest, but more expensive way to check the chassis is to go with the seller and the car to a car service. True, in such situations, the buyer will have to pay for the diagnostics from his own funds.

Interior inspection

Checking the interior is done mainly visually. It is necessary to inspect the panel, upholstery, covers and make sure they are intact. Further it is worth exploring:

• Seat adjustment (especially automatic);
• Driver's seat (it should not be collapsed and have a wobbly back);
• Wipers, steering wheel, power windows, heated seats, air conditioning and other options.

The condition of the steering wheel, gear lever and seats can tell a lot about mileage.

Some elements are allowed to wear (for example, on the steering wheel or pedals), but their degree must be appropriate. Cases burned by a cigarette or the ceiling are already a reason for bargaining.

After inspecting the salon, it will not be superfluous to ask the owner for the keys and try to start the car. Feel how the key turns and how the engine starts.

Engine inspection

The motor should be visually inspected. Malfunctions can be talked about:

• Oil leaks on it;
• Palm marks at the joints, sealant stains;
• Perfectly clean engine, as if just from a car wash.

The last point may signal that they are trying to hide something from the buyer. A normal motor should ideally be dirty, and its recent washing is suspicious. Fresh and too viscous oil signals that it has been refilled or recently changed, which may indicate an attempt to divert the attention of the buyer from significant defects.

Start your car and listen to the combustion engine

After a visual inspection, the engine is checked while running. Before it completely warms up, you should look into expansion tank... If bubbles appear there, the head gasket is damaged. The engine should be free of oil and antifreeze leaks while running. It is also worth making sure that there are no extraneous metallic sounds. Turns during work should not "float".

Test Drive

The inspection is followed by a mandatory test drive. Ideally, the buyer himself should get behind the wheel of the car. The check will be phased:

To check the machine, there is one more trick: stand on a segment of a flat road, activate position D, drown the brake pedal with one foot, and sharply press the gas with the other. If the car immediately turns off, then the box and the engine are working correctly.

So, you already know the most important thing for choosing a quality car. It remains only to summarize the new information and bring out the key points:

1. The slightest malfunction is a reason for bargaining. Even a small hole from a cigarette on the case will help to reduce the price a little, not to mention the incorrect operation of the main units.
2. Be on the lookout for the idea that someone will sell the perfect car for a low price. A person who urgently needs money can sell a car through an intermediary and immediately receive the money. The rest of the cars with a lower price tag are sold after an accident, legal problems, or are sold by scammers.
3. If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to take the car to a service for diagnostics. Additionally, you can check the electrics and carefully study the chassis.
4. You don't need to invest all your money in buying a car. It is recommended to leave at least 10-15% of cash for unforeseen expenses (registration with the traffic police, purchase of a compulsory motor third party liability insurance policy, replacement of consumables). Otherwise, the family budget may suffer.
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Full great options but some of them have hidden problems that are not obvious during a test drive. We hope this guide will help you recognize the signs of potential problems and make a more informed decision.

What to look for when checking a used car

When inspecting a used car, pay attention to two things:

1. Signs serious problems or safety concerns that should tell you to avoid the car.
2. Minor issues to take care of if you decide to buy a car. Knowing the little things can help you negotiate a price. If you find signs of a serious problem with the car, there is no point in inspecting it further, move on to the next car.

Major problems include significant rust damage, engine and transmission problems, previous major accidents, flood damage, lack of maintenance, or anything that makes the vehicle unsafe or may require costly repairs. Minor problems are those that do not affect the safety or reliability of the vehicle, or can be easily fixed, including worn tires, minor suspension and brake problems, scratches, dents, etc.

What you may need when checking

If you have a small magnet, this can be useful for locating repaired corrosion spots. You may also need a paper towel to check your engine oil and a USB cable or CD to check your audio system. If you will be using a child seat, it is recommended that you take it with you to check if it is right for you. You also need a knowledgeable friend to help you think through the pros and cons and make the right decision. It helps a lot if you google common problems specific brand and the model that interests you. You will know what to expect in the future, as well as what to look for when checking your vehicle. As a final step, we recommend checking the vehicle with your chosen mechanic before signing the agreement.

First step: quick inspection if there is a reason to avoid buying this car

This vehicle should be avoided if ...

• Start with a quick inspection. Rust stains should tell you that this car should be avoided. Why? Because the main components under the car can also rust, which makes the car SAFE. Look, for example, at the brake lines or the subframe (engine mount).
• Blue smoke from the exhaust.

You may find some problems with the engine when it starts up cold after the car has been idle for a while. If the engine rattles when starting, or you see blue or white smoke that smells like burnt oil, avoid the car, even if that's the only drawback.

Also avoid vehicles with AT, Airbag (SRS), 4WD and other warning lights on.

Take a look inside. Most dealers will detail cars before showing, but stay away from the car if it looks really dirty. What do the steering wheel, driver's seat and interior door handle look like? Are they badly worn out? Does it smell bad inside? Bad odors inside the car are difficult to get rid of.

Are there any signal icons? If a car has SRS (airbag) lit, it will be costly to repair, that car should be avoided. Problems with advanced security systems such as Blind Spot Monitoring, Live Camera, or Radar are also expensive to repair. AT (transmission) or 4WD warning lights also indicate costly problems.

Is the brake pedal lowered too much? Look for another car. Does it take too long to engage when you switch to Drive or Reverse mode during a test drive? Do you feel a strong jolt when the gear shifts or shifts? Avoid this car, there are many other options available.

Are there any indications that the car was being used as a rental car? Buying a used car is not always a bad idea as long as the price reflects it and the car is in good shape.

Darling or not

The first criterion for a purchase is its cost. Define a budget, and, based on this, start browsing ads on the Internet. After determining the approximate cost of the desired car, you can visit the local car market and check what prices are there. Also, be sure to check with a mechanic you trust.

What class

The choice of a used car class depends on several factors, the main of which is the purchase budget. Also, of course, the choice depends on personal preference and expectations from a future purchase.

Mileage indicators

Before choosing a used car, you should consider its current mileage. Of course, the less he traveled, the better. On average, 20,000 km per year is considered the norm. Of course, some cars travel less than others, but many drive a lot more because of the increased distance. For example, a car produced in 2015 with a mileage of about 100,000 is considered normal in 2020. If the car has 170,000 km. or more, it is better not to buy it.

Year of issue

The year of manufacture is directly related to the mileage and is one of the main selection criteria. To choose the right car for yourself, the year of manufacture must be taken into account in conjunction with the cost and mileage.

Body condition

Look at the reflection of the side of the car. She can tell you if all the panels are lined up and you can see signs of body repair. The car looks good if the panels are lined up and the paint texture looks even.

The next tip is the back door. She's showing signs. Not only is the texture uneven, you can see some lines just above the molding. These lines are left over from grinding. Sanding is performed to level the body fill and primer to prepare the surface for painting.

Check the production date on the VIN sticker. When choosing between two vehicles of the same model year it is better to choose the one that will be built later, all other things being equal. You will need a VIN number if you want to check the history or reviews of a car.

Interior condition

Check if the used car has at least two key fobs and that both are working. New car comes with two or three keys or key fobs; specify how much goes with a used car. If there is only one key and the rest are lost, the vehicle must be towed to the dealer to cut and program new keychain... It is not cheap.

Check the condition of the seats. Look for burnt marks and other damage. Minor damage can be repaired; ask if the owner can arrange renovations. Make sure both front seats move back and forth and recline. Do you feel free space? Is the seat heating element working? Common problems with seats include faulty seat heaters, broken seat frames, and unusual noises when moving or tilting. Electric seat mechanism under repair. Check the condition of the seat belts.

Suspension condition

The condition of the oil on the dipstick can tell a lot about the condition of the suspension. If you are uncomfortable doing these tests, leave them to the mechanics. Make sure the engine is off and the handbrake is on. Check your user manual for tips before choosing.

• Locate the engine oil dipstick. It usually has a brightly colored handle that says "Engine Oil".
• Pull out the dipstick and check the oil level and condition. If the oil looks very dirty and the level is very low, it means that the engine is using a lot of oil or is poorly maintained.
• Check the condition of the probe itself; if it is covered with black deposits, this is also a sign of poor engine condition.
• If there is no or very little oil on the dipstick, or the coolant is mixed with oil, avoid the vehicle.

If your car has a transmission fluid dipstick (many modern cars do not have one), check its condition upon purchase. For a better view, drip some liquid onto a white paper towel. Transmission fluid must be clean and transparent. If the oil looks very dirty or smells burnt, this is a sign of excessive wear in the transmission.

Power unit operation

Before checking anything under the hood, make sure the engine is off, the transmission is in park mode, and the handbrake is on. A quick look under the hood can reveal a few things about the car. Experts recommend that beginners pay attention to the following points:

• Leaks (avoid vehicle if there is significant leaks).
• Burnt oil or antifreeze smell (avoid vehicle).
• Anything that suggests that the car was not serviced regularly.
• Signs of poor quality repairs.
• Modifications that indicate that the vehicle has been racing or otherwise damaged.

Just because the engine compartment looks clean and shiny does not mean there are no leaks or other problems. Owners often flush the engine compartment before putting the vehicle up for sale. Watch out for leaks under the machine. The only thing that should drip from under the car is water from the drain of the air conditioner when it is turned on. The air conditioner drain is usually located under the passenger side.

If the battery terminal is highly susceptible to corrosion, not only does this car need new battery and a stand, this indicates that this car was serviced irregularly, otherwise this problem would have been eliminated during one of the inspections.

Electrician

Window regulator problems are common in many used cars. Sometimes the window lowers well, but rises very slowly or crookedly. Loud abnormal noises when the power window is on indicate a problem.

The rear wiper is another part that often breaks down in older cars. Check all wiper and washer functions.

Test the infotainment system

The only thing that constantly raises owner complaints in modern cars is the infotainment system. Here are some of the common complaints: areas of the screen lose sensitivity to touch, or the screen internally fails (over RUB 65,000 for a replacement). The system is responding slowly, glitches or unexpected restart. Some phones connect, some don't.

Infotainment issues are also costly if they go out of warranty and you'll need to visit your mechanic to do so. This means that the infotainment system must be checked thoroughly. If connecting your phone via Bluetooth is important to you, try connecting your phone. See if the system is playing your music. Check the touch screen and other features.

Rear view camera test

The rear view camera (if available) should also be checked. This is another area of ​​concern in many modern cars. The rear view camera may be intermittent, or the image may be blurry or distorted. The rear view camera is also expensive to repair.

Check the stove and air conditioner

Air conditioning problems are common in many used cars. With the engine running, turn on the air conditioner. You should feel cold air coming out of the vents shortly after turning on the air conditioner.

Check all stove fan speed settings. Does it provide good heating? Beware of the musty smell from the holes. A smell of burnt oil from the vents indicates possible oil leaks into the engine compartment... Antifreeze (coolant) smell is also a sign of a problem. If the car is equipped with separate system ventilation and air conditioning for rear passengers, also check it.

The condition of the tires and wheels can tell a lot about the condition of the chassis. Some aftermarket low profile discs bend easily. Check your disks. Some alloy wheels, especially low-profile ones, bend easily after hitting a pothole. If the rim is bent on the outside, then often the damaged spot is on the inside. The only way find out this - during the inspection before buying, when the car is lifted on a lift.

A symptom of a curved rim is vibration felt on the highway, although it is not always easy to detect during a short test drive. Replacing such a rim can be expensive. Original equipment discs are more durable, but they can bend too.

Cracked tire sidewall

Check your tires. Do they look worn out? Do they have cuts or other damage? If a tire has cracks in the sidewall, it will need to be replaced even if the tread is still in order. Are all tires from a reputable brand or from an unnamed manufacturer? Are all tires evenly worn? Uneven tire wear indicates a problem with the suspension or wheel balancing.

If the tire has a bulge (bubble) on the sidewall, then it must be replaced. The bulge cannot be repaired and a tire with such damage is dangerous to drive.

The last 4 digits of the DOT number on the tire indicate the date the tire was manufactured. Why is it important? If the tire is very old (more than 6-7 years old), even if the tread is in good condition, it may need to be replaced in the near future, as the rubber of the tire deteriorates over time. Check if the tire size matches the size indicated on the sticker. The tire sticker is usually located next to the VIN sticker.

New rubber versus worn tire

The new tires have tread depths from 10/32 ″ to 11/32 ″. The new tires can last up to 65,000 km. For example, a tire can still pass a safety check but is worn down to about 4/32 ″, which means this car will need new tires soon. Look at the indicator wear strip. The cost of a set of tires, depending on the size and brand, ranges from 25,000 to 65,000 rubles. Low profile 18 "and larger tires are more expensive. Run-flat tires are also expensive.

There are 2 different categories of silencers: reactive and dissipative. Each muffler has a different mechanism that is used to muffle exhaust and noise. Your car user manual should indicate which type of muffler is best for that brand, which will help you get started choosing the perfect muffler. Warnings for new mufflers should also be listed here.

Fuel consumption

Fuel consumption can be easily determined during a test drive. First, check the manufacturer's declared consumption. Then refuel full tank test car and cover 100 km. (or 50, preferably not less). To determine the fuel consumption, then refuel the tank before filling and check how much fuel has been used.

type of drive

Which type of drive is best for you - front, rear or all-wheel - it's up to you individually. Consult your mechanic regarding conditions of use and consumption for different types drive.

Inspect glass

Look closely at windshield... Pay attention to any chips, scratches, or other damage. Some star-shaped chips and cracks, if large enough, can cause the vehicle to fail the safety check. Replacing the windshield costs from 20,000 rubles. for a windshield for the aftermarket up to more than 60,000 rubles. for the original part.

A broken wiper can scratch your windshield. This scratch will cause glare when driving at night. Such scratches can be caused by sand particles trapped under the wiper blades. If the windshield needs to be replaced and has a front camera or radar sensor attached to it, it may be necessary to calibrate after replacing the windshield.

Inspect the headlights

Check if the headlights are fogged up and if all the headlights are working. Many modern cars have LED strips built into the headlights or taillights and they look great. Many amateurs do not take into account the fact that if the LED strip inside the headlight stops working, you may have to replace the entire headlight unit, which in some cars exceeds 60,000 rubles.

It's not like it used to be - I changed the light bulb and the problem is solved. Genuine high intensity (HID) lights from the manufacturer are also expensive to repair. The first signs of failure led strip- this is when one headlamp flickers or shines less than the other. The first sign of a HID failure is that one light comes on immediately and the other comes on after a significant delay. Watch out for moisture and fog inside the headlights.

Brand reputation

The reputation of the brand affects not only your feelings, but also the durability of individual components and the car itself as a whole. Of course more expensive brands guarantee a longer period of use, more reasonable fuel consumption, comfort and technical equipment of the interior. On the other side, famous brands usually offer more expensive parts, although their range and availability is much wider than for cars of less popular brands and models.

Additional criteria

If something looks out of place or is missing, careless repairs may have been made. For example, if the bolt clearly looks out of place, there should be an engine mount in that location, but it is missing. It doesn't look like a quality renovation. A couple more examples of poor quality repairs: sloppy wiring, bad leak in the valve cover, etc.

What are the signs of flooding damage

Flash floods are becoming common. If the car has been flooded, it will have more problems in the future. Modern cars have many electronic components that can be damaged by submersion.

You can find the dirty water mark on the speaker cover. Look for signs of moisture under the carpet. Check the trunk and spare wheel for water damage. The history record can also reveal flood damage. Be careful if the report indicates that the vehicle came from a recent flood area.

Check trunk, spare wheel, jack and key

Check for wheel lock key and tire change tools. Check if the car has a good spare wheel and a working jack. If the wheels are equipped with locks, make sure there is a locking key. Check the spare wheel for moisture.

Problems often become more apparent after the vehicle is fully warmed up. For example, automatic transmission the gears may only start working after 20-30 minutes of driving, or the engine may show signs of overheating with longer driving. Some problems (eg noisy wheel bearings, transmission vibration, alignment problems, noisy tires) are more noticeable when driving on a highway at higher speeds. Suspension and steering noises are easier to notice when driving slowly on uneven roads.

What to look for during a test drive

When the car is stationary:

• When switching to reverse do you feel a strong push or knock (transmission or rocker problems, avoid the car)?
• Do you feel excessive engine vibration when the vehicle is running on Idling(possibly bad motor mount)?

Around town:

• Are there any hesitations or jerks during acceleration?
• Is the engine stable and responsive or sluggish?
• Are there 'howls' or other abnormal noises or vibrations when accelerating or decelerating (transmission, system all-wheel drive, box, etc.)?
• Do you notice clicking or popping noise when shifting gears (possibly poor gearbox connections)?
• Do you feel shaking or lagging when shifting between gears (avoid the car if so)?
• Are there any jolts when stopping (problems with the transmission or four-wheel drive system, avoid the vehicle)?
• When the engine is stopped at a red light, is the engine idling or moving up and down?
• Does the car keep straight well or pulls to the side (wheel alignment problems)?
• Is the steering wheel positioned correctly when driving straight ahead (wheel balancing problems)?
• Is there a knocking bump or rattling sound when driving on rough roads (suspension or steering problems)?
• Does the car "bounce a lot" up and down when driving over bumps (bad shock absorbers or struts)?
• Are there any noises when braking? Does the car brake during braking? Does the brake pedal come down too low or feel too hard (avoid the car if so)?
• Does the hand brake hold the car when parked on a slope?

On the road:

• Do you feel vibration at higher speeds (possible wheel and tire problems)?
• Is there hum or rumbling (possibly noisy wheel bearings or caped tires)?
• Does the steering wheel swing when braking (warped or rusty brake discs)?

After test drive

If something is wrong, consider testing another car of the same model for comparison. Discuss any issues that need to be resolved prior to signing the purchase / sale agreement. For example, if a car needs new tires and the seller promises to “take care of it,” discuss in detail which tires will be fitted. Cheapest or reputable brand? This is best done in writing. The same goes for any warranty, check the contract and see what it covers. Verbal promises are just verbal promises.

It is recommended that you have your vehicle inspected thoroughly by an experienced mechanic before purchasing. There are many components that can only be properly inspected when the vehicle is being lifted on a lift. How to do it? Many used car buyers arrange for a pre-screening of a supplier specializing in this brand. It can cost from 5,000 to 10,000 rubles. If possible, speak directly to the technician who inspected the vehicle to clarify any findings and general opinion of the vehicle.

07 May

How to choose the right used car

Buying a vehicle is always an exciting and responsible moment. And when it comes to purchasing a used car, then you need to be especially careful and focused. This kind of purchase is always a risk, especially if you are a complete zero in cars.

Here you can hit very hard

On a car stolen

On a faulty car

Painted

Criminal

A pig in a poke - everything is ok at once, and after a month all the spare parts almost disappear from the car by themselves

You must clearly understand what exactly you want to purchase, for what amount. That is, if you need a station wagon body, then only it should not be considered other proposals. It is better to immediately decide otherwise, you can end up spending a lot of time and nerves, and in the end remain at a loss and with an incomprehensible purpose, but what do I still need. (if you have an old car, but there is not enough money for a new one, then you can)

Therefore, it is better to plan everything in advance, but rather write it down for yourself and make notes. If the selection of a car fell on the choice through the bulletin board on the Internet, then set the search parameters on the site as accurately as possible

For instance

1. Sedan
2. Year from 2015
3. Box - mechanics
4. Fuel type - gasoline

In such a spirit of waters. If at the initial stage you have definitely decided on the brand and body, then your searches will be much faster and more productive.

Also, keep in mind that in most cases, buying a car on a bulletin board or outbid in any case will require some investment from you. Money to your newly acquired car

• Rugs
• Anthers
• Carrying out dry cleaning of the salon

And perhaps some other waste, so the stock of finance after the purchase should be in order to eliminate all the minor flaws. This is the norm with used cars.

Expensive and cheap

Popularity

When buying a car for secondary market it is worth paying very much attention to the popularity of the car. It means its prevalence in your country and city. Since if you buy some little-known brand or even an exclusive one, then, as you understand, spare parts for such a device will be very problematic and expensive to find.

That is, in the event of a breakdown, you can stand for a whole month in the garage waiting for a new part from abroad. And even if you find it. And if you do not find it, it will take a walk to come up with something, so to speak, collective farms. Which again rests on time and finances.

Therefore, take common brands of cars and popular models of these brands, then there will be at least new parts, even used ones. in bulk and the auto repairman will know the car well, which, of course, will affect the speed of the repair and its cost.

Plus, on common cars there is such a bonus to the Internet, that is, on the network you can always find advice on how to eliminate this or that defect on your own, and often good car owners also post a detailed video, so always prioritize purchasing a common brand when final choice.

Photo

Since you are purchasing a used car via the Internet, the presence of photos and their number in the ad can already tell you a lot about the car and its owner. If you see two or three photos, and even then they were taken with an old telephone camera - such an ad can be eliminated immediately.

Also, do not consider the ads of photos, which are clearly visible in a very dirty and greasy interior. Most likely, the owner also looked after the engine and chassis of this car.

That is, they definitely did not change the oil according to the regulations, if they did change it at all, they installed the cheapest Chinese spare parts and many other "amenities". Having acquired such a "pig in a poke" then you will invest and invest in it, which, as they say, is not good.

If you see different shades on the body, for example: the doors are a little darker, the wings are lighter - it is clear that the car was painted, and almost 100% due to an accident, you should usually pass by, if you are not a genius auto repairman, of course, and you know a lot about cars or are engaged in their restoration ...

But if the ad is well described, there are at least 10-20 high-definition photos from all sides, close-ups, everything is clean and tidy, then you can already call the seller and ask about the history of the car and even ask for wines to check on the base for theft.

If the seller did not arouse your suspicions and his speech is confident and firm, he provides you with no problems and the wine code is willing to contact you, you can agree on a time and place for a car inspection.

Description

You can also notice that if the description in the Internet ad is as complete as possible, that is, the author told everything about the car, and maybe about its history, storage, etc., the bark of everything is ok. But if it says "All questions on the phone" then 100% of you will be hung with long pasta, on your ears, describing some kind of strange fable - we pass by.

Perspectives

When buying a used car, it is worth considering in the head the same way. How realistic it will be and how the price will fall. So that you do not accidentally acquire such a transport, which then forever hangs with you as illiquid - that is, you cannot resell it and it will face the fate of a landfill or delivery, and you, as a rule, lose money. So it's worth planning a little ahead.

Book

It is highly desirable that on the purchased vehicle was his own book of passing those services, or simply MOT. It's like a history of a person's illness, here you will see everything when and where the oil, spare parts were changed, for which hundred, etc. The presence of such documentation will be a big plus for the fact that you are purchasing a well-maintained, reliable car.

How many owners have a car

Just ask how many owners this particular car had, if the one who sells it to you traveled less than a year after purchasing it, you should pass by such an ad. There is a high probability that something is wrong with the car and the owner is in a hurry to get rid of it because he got it himself and is now trying to get his money back by shifting all the waste to you.

Do not be shy

If you have opted for a car, do not hesitate to offer the seller to drive to the service station to inspect the car, which you will pay. But the master will tell you exactly what needs to be changed and how much it will cost. And here is the reason for a good bargaining and price drop.

If the owner, after such a proposal, began to scoff and come up with excuses - do not waste time, just say goodbye and go looking further, anyway there, there are 100% big problems with the car from that, then he did not agree to a full technical inspection of the vehicle.

A conscientious owner and seller will agree without any problems, and will go with you, because his goal is to sell the car, and if he is completely confident in it and knows the car, then he has nothing to fear, because he does not hide anything from you.

Friend's help

Personally, based on my experience, I will say that one head is good and two is better. Therefore, when buying a used car, I always take with me a very experienced master who has a very long and good reputation in the city. He has all the equipment to check the machine at the point of purchase. He inspects everything from paint and rust to engine problems and ECU interference ( the electronic unit control or simply the computer of the car), it looks what was being done, whether the run was reeled off, etc.

As a rule, the appearance of such a specialist often perplexes many outbid sellers, because all the "noodles" that they wanted to hang for you immediately disappear like smoke in a hurricane wind and such a grief the seller quickly retreats disappearing with his junk in an unknown direction.

Yes, it costs money - the service of such a master. But believe me, what you spend on his services will pay off a hundredfold and huge savings on spare parts and nerves. With such a specialist, there is a high probability of buying a car in which it will not be necessary to invest anything at all - sat down and drove off. It is worth considering this option very hard. Personally, I strongly advise you to do just that when buying cars on the secondary market - that's what I do.

On this note, we end our story about how to choose the right used car and not get caught in the money. If you listen to them, then with a high degree of probability you will acquire a good device for family and work. If you also have experience in purchasing such machines, share your practice with our readers. And to assimilate what you read, watch the video tips on how to choose a good used car.

Categories:/ / from 05/07/2017