Pre-Owned Vehicle Purchasing Tips
1998 Saturn SL2 and 2003 Saturn ION 3 QC
The following information will assist you when you are in the market for a Pre-Owned Vehicle.
Before you Drive:
- Do a walk around to check the car for different colors. [Indication of an accident]
- Check the tires to make sure they are a matched set and check the thread depth [Most dealers will replace a tire if it has less than 4/32 of wear left]
- Make sure that the Radio works. Check all the Controls and Speakers, then shut it off. [Want to hear the car NOT the Radio]
- Heating/Cooling. Turn it on and get comfortable. Then turn it to a Low (fan speed) setting. [Want to hear the car NOT the Fan]
- Check all the buttons, switches and lights.
The Test Drive:
- Make sure that the Sales Person is NOT distracting you. [Some will talk to cover car noise]
- Make sure the Test Drive includes Freeway Speeds and normal surface driving. The test drive should include roads that have bumps, curves, and if possible, railroad crossing. [Checking the drivability of the Vehicle]
- If someone else will be driving the Vehicle, have them there and repeat the FULL course again.
After The Test Drive:
- Demand a Car Fax. If they will not give you one; walk away.
- On the Car Fax check to see if ANY accidents have been reported. [Note only accidents where an insurance claim or police report will show]
- See how many individuals have owned/leased the Vehicle. [If several have owned it for a short period of time, could indicate a “problem”]
- See what warranty if any is available, both manufacturer and Dealer. [If you do NOT have it in writing, it probably is NOT there]
- If you decide to Purchase an extended warranty, make sure you have a copy of what is and is not covered. Look over it BEFORE you leave. Verify the coverage’s and what the deductibles are if any.
- Where are extended warranty items performed? If you MUST return to the Dealer that you purchased the Vehicle from, DON’T buy the Warranty. Any Extended Warranty should be honored at ANY ASE Certified Car Repair Shop.
- If you don’t understand ANY of the Paperwork, don’t sign it. Make sure that you know what is being signed.
If you know of ANY other items that may help someone, please e-mail them to me. I will add them if they are applicable. alan@mitsubishiwest-alclapsaddle.com