August 25, 2005
Things to Know When Buying a Used Car or new Classic
A used car or newly purchased classic can be full of surprises – and not necessarily of the superior variety.
Nobody wants a lemon. Whether you are in the market for a dependable used car, or a classic to restore, it is important to thoroughly inspect a car before making a purchase.
Condition of Mechanical Components
Before looking for a used car, assess your needs. Your intentions for the car will determine what quality of condition you should look for, and what you are willing to sacrifice. For instance, if you hate working on cars or don’t know how, you’ll want a car that is mechanically sound
Engine
The condition of a car’s engine is and most important things to look at. Preventative maintenance is important. Timely oil changes and the quality of oil used are important contributors to a healthy engine, so be sure to ask the seller to see records of oil changes, if available. Also, many newer cars have belt-driven engines, instead of chain-driven engines. Know what the car has, and ask for records of timing belt replacement. Most timing belts must be replaced every 60,000 – 80,000 miles to prevent worn belts from stretching or breaking. Having the timing belt replaced can be expensive, but the repairs on an engine with a broken belt are guaranteed to be many times more expensive, so it is important to know when the belt was last replaced.