Paying for it:
Don’t be afraid to haggle on the price, especially if there are any concerns or repairs that will need to be made.
- Get the NADA Book value, so you know what it’s worth and don’t overpay!
- And of course, get your financing from your Home Town Credit Union.
Click here to apply now or visit the Lending Hub to speak with a loan guru.
Test drive:
- During test drive, go over some rough pavement and bumps and listen for rattles, squeaks and loose suspension
- See if it pulls to one side or the other (alignment)
- Front wheel drive only – find a parking lot and turn sharply both directions and listen for knocking sounds (may need CV joints)
- Brakes should stop smoothly and quietly without pulling and should feel firm - not spongy
- Engine should run smoothly and quietly. Listen for pings, rattles, knocks, grinds, vibrations, squeals, engine hesitation or stumbles on acceleration.
- An automatic transmission should shift smoothly without jerking, slipping or hesitation on upshift. When coming to a stop, it should not bang on downshifts.
- A manual transmission should operate easily with one-inch toe play on clutch pedal. Shift gears and listen for grinding sound. If you hear noise, it may need a clutch plate or internal repairs.
- Check color of the exhaust:
- Barely visible or just a little white is normal
- Blue smoke indicates burning oil
- Black smoke indicates too much fuel in the engine
- Heavy, white smoke indicates a blown head gasket or cracked head
Under the hood, check:
- For leaks
- Fluid levels of oil, antifreeze, power steering and transmission
- Belts & Hoses
- Battery and connections
- Old oil buildup or sludge inside valve cover where the oil filler cap is (sign of neglect)
- Is there a fuel smell?
Under the vehicle, check:
- For leaks and rust
- The undercarriage for damage
- Tires for uneven wear
- Loose parts hanging from body
On the body check:
- Operations of hood, doors, door glass, all latches and keys
- Exterior body paint, such as mismatched colors or uneven textures
- Vehicle’s body for waviness or irregularities
- Poorly fitted panels that suggest body repairs
- All lights: headlights, taillights, turn signals, brake lights, reverse lights and license plate tag lights
- Spare tire, jack and tools
- Water or water damage in trunk
Check the interior:
- Seats, door panels, headliner, rugs and mats
- Door locks, power windows and power seats
- Radio, compact disc player, DVD player and audio/USB jacks
- Horn and steering column
- Windshield wipers and fluid sprayers
- Dash lights and interior lights
Have a professional take a look:
Some people also like to take used cars to a trusted mechanic – this is always a good idea. Be sure to pass on any concerns or observations to him/her when you take it in.
Thanks to CUNA for letting us share this great list!
