How to Inspect a Used Car Before You Buy: AutoCloud’s No-Nonsense Guide

Walk around it. View it from all angles. Squat down and look along the body for ripples or mismatched paint - signs of past panel work. Run your hand along the gaps between doors and panels. Uneven spacing suggests an accident repair.

Tyres can also tell you a story. Uneven wear = possible alignment or suspension issues. Cheap, mismatched tyres = a seller who cuts corners.

Inside the Cabin

Step into the driver’s seat and take in the interior - not just visually, but with all your senses. A damp, musty smell? Possible flood damage. Overly strong perfume? A cover-up.

Check the condition of the seats, pedals, and steering wheel. If the mileage says 50,000 but everything’s worn smooth, something doesn’t add up.

Turn on the ignition and make sure all warning lights illuminate - and then turn off as they should. If any stay on (check engine, ABS, airbag), dig deeper.

Under the Bonnet - You Don’t Need to Be a Mechanic

Pop the bonnet and have a look. Even if you don’t know engines inside-out, you can spot obvious problems.

• Pull the oil dipstick - the oil should be golden or light brown, not black or sludgy.

• Check the coolant tank - it should be a clear colour (not brown, oily, or low).

• Inspect for leaks, corrosion, and frayed belts.

Look around for evidence of recent work or patch jobs - fresh paint, clean parts on an otherwise dirty engine bay, or missing bolts.

The All-Important Test Drive

This is where most used cars either earn your trust - or reveal their true colours.

Start the engine cold (not already running when you arrive). Listen for rattles, ticking, or loud idling. Pay attention to smoke from the exhaust - blue or white plumes could mean trouble.

During the drive:

• Steering should feel responsive and centred.

• Braking should be smooth and quiet.

• Shifting (manual or automatic) should be clean, with no jerks or hesitation.

• Suspension should feel stable over bumps - no knocking or bouncing.

Drive at different speeds, on varied roads. And do it all with the radio off - you need to hear everything the car’s telling you.

Post-Drive Checks

After the test, park the car and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Then check under it for leaks.

If you're not sure what to look for under the bonnet or simply want peace of mind, ask the seller if the car can be taken to a trusted mechanic for a quick check-up. A professional pre-purchase inspection can spot hidden issues that aren’t obvious during a test drive - and could save you from costly surprises later.

Ask the Right Questions

Once you're satisfied with what you've seen and heard, ask the seller directly:

• Why are you selling?

• Has it been in any accidents?

• Who was the previous owner?

• Are there service records?

• Any outstanding finance on the car?

If answers feel vague, rushed, or inconsistent - walk away.

Key Takeaway

A used car is one of the biggest personal purchases you’ll make. Don’t rush it. Take your time, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to walk away - the right one will come along.

AutoCloud makes it easier by helping you compare clean, properly listed vehicles from trusted sellers. Head over to AutoCloud.mu and start your search with confidence.