Buying a Craigslist Used Car: 10 Things to Check

Craigslist is one of the most well known sites offering several different used cars for

sale. Here are several important things you should look when buying the used car.

1. Vehicle’s Body

The first thing to examine on Craigslist used cars is the exterior. None of the panels

should have dents or rust. Small scratches are not a big issue, unlike rust. The wheel

wells and rocker panels must be examined as well. You should open and shut all

doors, trunk and roof.

2. Engine

It is wise to examine the engine when it is cool. It is common to notice some dust or

dirt. Nonetheless, if there is oil spilled around or on the ground beneath the car,

there may be a serious issue. Additionally check for a corroded battery and loose

wires.

3. Wheels and Tires

Tire tread should display an even amount of wear on either side of the vehicle. If

there is a lot of wear on the exterior part, the vehicle could have been driven hard.

The spare tire should be in good condition as well.

4. Windshield

You should check out the windows and windshield for any cracks or pitted spots. A

small chip may not seem bad, but it can be used when negotiating the cost of the car.

Keep in mind that cracks in any windshield become worse with time and can result in

a costly repair in the future.

5. Oil Filter and Dipstick

In addition to the fluid levels, you should check the oil. It should be a dark brown

color. If the dipstick has water or oil that looks gray or foam-like, there could possibly

be a crack in the engine. There should not be bits of metal on the rag when wiped

down, because this can be an indication of major issues.

6. Interior

It is advisable to smell the interior of the Craigslist used car for a musty odor, which

could mean a water leak. The seat’s upholstery should not have tears and the rubber

on the pedals should be in good condition. The roof should not droop down and if

the vehicle has a sunroof, it should open and shut well.

7. Safety Features

Before purchasing a vehicle, you should make sure that the safety features, like the

headlights and turn signals function properly. If the vehicle comes with antilock

brakes, it should also be tested. The horn should work and the muffler must be in

good order.

8. Electrical Components

Many vehicles have several items that function electronically. Automatic door locks

and window functions should work well. The stereo must also play properly. If there

are any additional electrical features like a car alarm or keyless entry, you have to

test them to be sure they are working properly as well.

9. Manufacturer’s Emblem

The Manufacturer’s emblem is generally located on the driver’s door. There should

be no indication of tampering. The VIN number should be easy to read as well as the

date that the vehicle was built.

10. Heater and Air Conditioner

In order to properly examine the heater and air conditioner, you must allow the

engine to get warm. When turning on the A/C, it should start right away. If it seems

broken, know that it is costly to repair. To test the heat, turn the fan on to all the

speed settings. If the air that is pushed through is moist, then it may be an indication

that a heater core has a leak.

A Craigslist used car can be a smart buy when one is careful. Craigslist can be packed

with scams, yet when you put in the effort to look into and deal with a respectable

vendor, you can wind up with a great automobile.