Buying a used car: what to check? Lac-St-Jean

IN COLLABORATION WITH PROMUTUEL ASSURANCE

Discover the points to watch out for when buying a used car to avoid unpleasant surprises and get a good deal.

Do you want to buy a car and are you considering opting for a used car?

Although it is a less expensive option, buying a used car is a process that can cause concern for many. But, by taking your time and being vigilant, you can get a good deal. To do this, you must perform some important checks and properly inspect the coveted used car.

Was she involved in an accident? Is it attached to debts from a previous owner? Is its mechanics in good condition? These are all questions you need to find the answers to when shopping. In order to find the perfect car for you, find here the points to watch out for and the steps to follow when buying a used car.

Why choose a used car?

First and foremost, make sure a used car is best for you. Why choose a used car rather than leasing or buying a new car? The main advantage of a used vehicle relates to its price. When you buy a used car, you not only save on purchase, but you also avoid paying for its depreciation. In addition, the annual cost of a used car in good condition is usually lower than that of a new car. Why? Well, car insurance for a used car is generally less expensive than for a new model, if you have good driving habits, of course. Finally, opting for a used car allows you to have more choices according to your budget and to obtain more features and options at a lower price.

On the other hand, buying a used car is more risky. Indeed, by buying a used vehicle, you also buy its history and the way it was driven and maintained. This is why you must be vigilant!

8 things to watch out for when buying a used car

Worst mistake to make when buying a used car? Dash. To avoid unpleasant surprises and get a good deal, you must take the time to carry out the necessary checks, both with regard to the mechanics of the vehicle and its formalities (registration, debts, models, maintenance reports , etc.). To help you with your due diligence, here are 8 points to watch out for when buying a used car:

When researching the internet, check…

1. The right price

The first thing to do is to determine the fair price to pay for the model, year and mileage of the used vehicle you are interested in. To do this, compare prices on resale sites like Kijiji Autos, Auto123, AutoTrader and Auto Aubaine. By shopping well, you will not only be certain that you are paying the right price, but you will also have better bargaining power during the transaction.

1. Consumer reviews of the reliability of the car

The Internet is full of information that can be beneficial when shopping for a used car. Check consumer reviews on the reliability of the coveted used car by checking out online forums like edmunds.com. You will be able to identify the frequent problems encountered by the owners as well as the advantages of the vehicle in question which are unanimous. Don't hesitate to ask your questions! Remember, however, that most of these forums are moderated by consumers who are not necessarily auto mechanic professionals.

1. Manufacturer's recalls and other relevant information

Consult Transport Canada's Vehicle Safety Recalls Database to see if the desired model is likely to be subject to frequent recalls or if one of its parts is found to be defective. You don't want to end up with major repair costs! In this sense, it may be interesting to consult the rockauto.com's website and its "Repair Index" tab, which allows you to compare repair costs according to the parts.

1. The car's history

This verification is crucial before buying a used car. However, it is often on this aspect that new owners face unpleasant surprises. Avoid the hassle by requesting the vehicle's history from the Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) or request a CarFax report. This report will notably provide you with the name of the former owner as well as the use he made of the car in question. Also check the vehicle's VIN (located inside the driver's side door) to find out, among other things, the year, make and place of manufacture. Next, verify that the car has not been stolen, by consulting the Canadian Police Information Centre. Finally, make sure the car is fully paid for by visiting the Register of Personal and Movable Real Rights (RDPRM) website.

When inspecting the used vehicle, check…

1. The condition of its bodywork and mechanics

After checking the price, reliability and history of the car, you need to visually inspect it. To ensure that the bodywork and mechanics are in good condition, pay attention to the following points:

— The dashboard warning lights: the engine, airbag, anti-lock braking system (ABS), anti-theft system and traction control fault warning lights should come on when you turn the key in the ignition , and go out once the vehicle is off.

— The mileage: make sure it is the same as that announced by the seller.

— Tires: Look for signs of wear such as cracks.

— The engine: make sure that it starts immediately when cold and that it is not abnormally noisy. Check for mud or dirt in the engine, which could be a sign of poor maintenance.

— Fluids: pay particular attention to the engine cooling fluid. If it's dark brown and smells burnt, avoid buying the car. Check for leaks under the vehicle.

— The body and exterior: Look for signs of corrosion on the body, under the car and on the floor. Check the condition of the rims. Try to identify traces of repairs.

— The bumpers and their mountings: they must not move. If they move, it may be because they have suffered an accident.

— Lights: make sure they are working.

— Accessories: test them and check that they work properly.

1. His conduct

Before buying a used car, you have to try it! To get a more concrete idea of ​​how it drives, drive it for at least 15 minutes. Keep an eye out for unusual mechanical noises, vibrations, and other suspicious movements. Test the brakes and gearbox thoroughly. At the end of your test drive, be sure to walk around the vehicle with its engine running. You may notice suspicious smells and noises.

1. The reason for the sale

Dare to ask all your questions to the seller, whether it is an individual or a dealer. Why is the vehicle for sale? Was he involved in a traffic accident? When was the last interview? The seller should tell you about known issues with the car. In addition to getting answers, you will be able to test the seller's honesty and better understand their motives. If you're buying from a dealer, make sure they have a valid license and that it's displayed in their store and listed on the contract.

The last check...

1. Inspection by a professional

Still interested after doing the previous seven checks? Even if you are well informed, it could be that a mechanical problem went unnoticed during your inspection. Even if the dealer gives you an inspection report, it is recommended that you have the used car inspected by an independent garage before making the purchase.

Steps in the process of buying a used car

Now that you know more about what to watch out for when buying a used car, do you feel ready to get down to business? If this is your first car and you're not sure where to start, here's a step-by-step guide to buying a used vehicle.

1. Establish your needs and your budget: determine the use you will make of the vehicle and the amount you are willing to pay. Don't forget to consider the annual fees associated with its use.
2. Do your research: Scour the web and dealer courses for used cars that meet your criteria.
3. Inspect the vehicle: make sure you carry out the checks mentioned above. If this is your first car, do not hesitate to ask someone who has already had this experience to accompany you. It is also recommended to have the vehicle inspected by a professional.
4. Make the necessary checks: when buying a used vehicle, check all the points to watch out for listed above.
5. Negotiate with the seller: after comparing the prices and inspecting the vehicle, negotiate with the seller by supporting your offer, highlighting the repairs to be made as well as any other negative points raised by your research and the inspection report of the mechanic.
6. Buy the used car: the Consumer Protection Office recommends that you provide a written contract with the buyer. Write down the contact information for both parties, the date the contract was signed, information on the car sold, the amount of the transaction, etc.
7. Transfer the property to your name: once the transaction is complete, you must go to an SAAQ establishment with the seller (if it is an individual).
8. Find out about the warranties offered by the manufacturer.

Insure your used car

Are you now the proud owner of your dream car? Before you can legally drive it on the road, the final step in the process of buying any vehicle, whether new or used, is to insure it. In Quebec, the law obliges all owners to take out civil liability insurance that protects them, among other things, in the event of damage caused to other people. Auto insurance provides you with this civil liability coverage and allows you to protect your car against damage to the vehicle itself from theft, hail, collision or upset, etc.

Promutuel Insurance is the trusted insurer of thousands of Quebecers! Insuring your car with us means taking advantage of our exclusive advantages and benefiting from discounts on your premium, especially if you have good driving habits. Request a quote for auto insurance or speak to one of our representatives now.

All you have to do is prepare your favorite playlist and enjoy the freedom that your new car offers you. Good road!

* The masculine generic is used in this text only for the purpose of simplifying the form and facilitating its reading.