15 parts to check when buying a used car.

(Baonghean.vn) - Thoroughly inspecting the parts of a used car will help buyers understand its condition and operating history, avoiding risks when buying a used vehicle.

When buying a used car, in addition to price and appearance, buyers need to be aware of some technical aspects to choose the best product. The following points will help buyers accurately assess the condition of a used car.

Engine

Engine inspection here includes starting the engine and checking compression. The engine's starting time and whether the engine runs smoothly and quietly are all factors that allow skilled technicians to detect engine problems. A compression test gauge helps the mechanic check if the pressure generated by the cylinders meets the required standards.

Body

Inspecting the bodywork is the first thing you should do when approaching a used car. Checking the paint, the smoothness and curvature of the body panels, and rust are all visually observable factors that can give you some idea of ​​the car's age or durability.

Control panel

The instrument panel, along with the buttons or touchscreen, needs to be accurate and provide all the necessary information about the vehicle's status and journey. Test all the buttons, even the smallest ones like volume and track switching, to ensure that all parts of the vehicle work together smoothly.

Door

It's necessary to check if the car doors close tightly, and if there are any gaps or warping. If a car has been involved in a collision, these signs may appear, to varying degrees.

Windshield

Inspect all windows and the front and rear windshields to assess the likelihood of a major collision. Note any signs of abrasion, cracks, or looseness when lightly pressed. These factors may indicate that the vehicle has been involved in a collision and repaired, or has not been properly maintained in a long time.

Cooling radiator, ducting

The coolant reservoir is the first easy part to check under the hood. If the coolant level is low or there's dirt buildup, it indicates the previous owner didn't pay much attention to this part. The technician will also thoroughly inspect the radiator fins to ensure they aren't thin or porous. The coolant lines should also be examined to see if they need replacing.

Engine block

If the engine gasket is worn, oil will leak from under the engine block. Even if the engine block isn't leaking oil, it could still be due to the previous owner using a thicker oil with specifications like 20W-40 or 30W-50. Thicker oils can prevent black smoke from engines with worn piston rings. In practice, it's best to use the oil recommended by the manufacturer.

HVAC (heating and ventilation) systems

HVAC refers to the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system of a vehicle. In countries with harsh climates like Vietnam, checking the HVAC system is even more essential.

Tires, shock absorbers

Car buyers should test drive the vehicle in addition to visual inspection. Tire noise will be louder if the tires are worn. Usually, the noise comes from the two rear wheels. For four-wheel drive vehicles, the two front wheels will have more wear due to active braking.

The suspension system is equally important; test the vehicle on different types of terrain to check its responsiveness.

Exhaust pipe

The first thing to do is to rev the engine to check the amount of smoke coming from the exhaust pipe, whether it's a lot or a little, and if it has an unusual color. If there are problems, it indicates the car is low on oil, hasn't had an oil change in a long time, or the exhaust system or engine is experiencing problems during combustion or exhaust. Don't be too quick to accept a car with an excessively old exhaust pipe, as it could be punctured at any time.

Tripod

Replacing engine mounts can be very expensive if they break. There are a total of four rubber engine mounts. To check them, open the hood, shift to first gear, and press the accelerator. If the engine jerks violently backward or upward, it's time to replace them. The rubber mounts are also quite easy to spot with the naked eye. Most older cars have this problem.

Car lights

The lighting system is essential when driving at night or through foggy or rainy areas. The headlights, brake lights, and turn signals all need to be tested for brightness, beam distance, and lifespan.

Brakes

If the brake pedal feels loose, or you experience vibrations in the car or steering wheel when braking, or hear a squeaking or metallic grinding sound when braking, the cause could be a lack of brake fluid, a brake fluid leak, excessively worn brake discs needing resurfacing, or worn brake pads.

Clutch

For manual transmission cars, a way to identify a worn clutch is to release the brake pedal completely, shift into second gear, lightly press the accelerator, and slowly release the clutch. If pressing the accelerator hard doesn't move the car, the clutch needs replacing immediately. Another way is to turn off the engine and press the clutch. If a noise is heard, it means the clutch is worn.

Gear

The gearbox should also be thoroughly inspected at various speeds, especially with manual transmissions. Check for any unusual noises when shifting gears, ensure the accelerator pedal engages smoothly with the clutch, and look for consistent, weak traction – all signs that the vehicle's drivetrain needs checking. These issues should be considered before purchasing.

In addition to the parts that need checking mentioned above, buyers of used cars also need to have their vehicles repaired and parts replaced periodically. For example, manual transmission cars need a clutch replacement every 100,000 km (depending on the specific car) or a timing belt replacement every 90,000 km. For automatic transmission cars, the transmission fluid and engine oil should be changed after replacing the timing belt, approximately every 90,000-100,000 km.

If you can't perform the pre-purchase inspection yourself, ask a reputable garage to do it. The cost of a full inspection and diagnosis is usually not too expensive, and it's well worth considering compared to the risk of buying a car in poor condition.

Ngoc Anh

(Synthetic)

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