Before you ask someone to be in a relationship, it’s best to get to know them first. You start by talking to them, learning about their interests, and finally deciding if that person is right for you. The same applies to inspecting a car before buying it.
Although Big Valley Auto Auction can’t help you decide if you’re choosing the right partner, we can guide you to deciding which car is right for you. Since 2008, we’ve offered our dealers inspection services to help them detect any issues a vehicle may have and fix them.
In this article, you’re going to learn what you should inspect before buying a car from an auto auction and why they should be inspected.
After reading this article, you’ll have the information needed to enter your next auction prepared to buy the right vehicle.
What Should I Inspect Before Buying a Car?
There are 6 things you need to check before purchasing a vehicle from an auto auction:
- Fluid levels
- Engine noises
- Transmission
- Signs of previous repair
- Warning light
- Stains
1. Fluid Levels
Inspecting the fluid levels is important for 4 reasons:
- Maintenance history
- Mechanical health
- Hidden issues
- Safety
Maintenance History
Fluid levels can show how well the car has been maintained. Low fluid levels might suggest the buyer has been neglecting the vehicle or there are potential leaks that need attention.
Mechanical Health
Proper fluid levels are necessary for the smooth operation of various components in the car, such as the engine, transmission, brakes, and steering. Checking these levels can give you insights into the overall mechanical health of the vehicle.
Hidden Issues
Low fluid levels could be a sign of underlying issues that may not be immediately noticeable. For example, low engine oil could indicate excessive engine wear or leaks, while low transmission fluid could suggest transmission problems.
Safety
Ensuring proper fluid levels is essential for the safety of the vehicle. Low brake fluid can affect braking performance, posing a safety risk to you and others on the road.
You can check the fluid levels by pulling the dipstick(s).
2. Engine Noises
Inspecting engine noises is important for 2 reasons:
- Maintenance history
- Potential issues
Maintenance History
Engine noises can sometimes indicate whether the car has received proper maintenance or if there has been neglect or poor repairs in the past. A well-maintained engine typically runs smoothly and quietly.
Potential Issues
Engine noises can be signs of underlying mechanical problems. Strange sounds like knocking, tapping, whining, or grinding could suggest issues with components such as the pistons, valves, bearings, or belts.
You can check for engine noises by starting and running the engine.
3. Transmission
Inspecting the transmission is important for 3 reasons:
- Potential issues
- Estimating repair costs
- Safety
Potential Issues
The transmission is one of the most complex and vital components of a vehicle. Inspecting it can help you identify any potential issues such as slipping gears, rough shifting, or unusual noises, which could indicate underlying problems.
Estimating Repair Costs
Transmission repairs can be expensive. By inspecting the transmission beforehand, you can assess whether any repairs or replacements are needed, allowing you to factor these costs into your budget or negotiate a better price for the vehicle.
Safety
A faulty transmission can compromise the safety of the vehicle. Issues like sudden gear slippage or failure to engage gears properly can lead to accidents on the road. Ensuring the transmission is in good condition helps maintain the safety of both the driver and passengers.
You can check the transmission by putting in and out of each available gear.
4. Signs of Previous Repair
Previous signs of repair can be a sign of past accidents or damage. By inspecting these repairs, you can determine the extent of the damage and determine if it was properly repaired. This helps you avoid buying a car with hidden structural issues or safety concerns.
5. Warning Light
Warning lights show underlying problems with the vehicle. Some warning lights, such as those related to the braking system or airbags, indicate safety issues. Buying a car without addressing these warnings could put you and others at risk on the road.
6. Stains
Stains, especially on upholstery or carpets, can hint at potential damage to the interior. Water stains, for example, might indicate leaks from the windows, sunroof, or even the windshield, which could lead to mold or mildew growth.
Do I Know What to Inspect Before Buying a Car From an Auto Auction?
Getting to know someone before asking them to be in a relationship is a smart thing to do before making that decision. Likewise, inspecting a car and learning about any issues it may have is smart to do before making it yours. By identifying any potential issues beforehand, you can better estimate any potential repair costs, allowing you to set a budget for the vehicle.
Whether you’re a dealer looking to buy inventory, or someone interested in buying a used car, you can use this article as a guide to help you know what to check for when buying a car.
If you'd like to buy vehicles that have been thoroughly inspected, click the button below to speak with our dealer registration specialist to get you registered with Big Valley Auto Auction.
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