Tips for detecting potential problems when shopping for a used vehicle.

Finding a good used car is easier if you know how to detect potential problems and past damage. Familiarize yourself with the following red flags before shopping for a pre-owned vehicle.

What to look for

A visual assessment can provide several clues about a car’s condition.

Rust due to Michigan’s climate isn’t unusual for an older car and surface rust won’t affect safety. However, extensive rust that has created holes in body panels or compromised the underbody or frame can affect the structural integrity of the vehicle.

Misaligned body parts or those with a slightly different paint color could be clues that the car was in an accident.

Look for evidence of flooding in places that are hard to clean. Mud or debris in gaps between the panels under the hood and in the trunk are cause for concern. New carpet in an older car may also indicate flood damage.

Warning smells

Use your nose to sniff out indications of problems with water. The smell of mold or mildew could mean a water leak or that the car has flood damage. Read more about how to avoid buying a flood-damaged vehicle.

How it handles

You can sense a lot about a car by the way it handles.

When you’re moving, notice if the car rattles or pulls in one direction. While the car is parked, press down on each corner of the car; more than one bounce back up may mean that the struts or shocks are worn.

Assess the feel of the brakes. A soft or spongy feel could indicate that the brake system needs attention.

Check the VIN

The VIN (vehicle identification number) that appears on the car should match the VIN on the title. The VIN on the car can be located on the dashboard (visible through the windshield on the driver’s side), on a sticker on the driver’s side door jamb or under the hood near the engine block.

You can run the VIN through the National Insurance Crime Bureau database to see if a car is stolen or a salvage vehicle.

Also, checking the VIN on safercar.gov will alert you if the car is subject to a recall.

Follow your gut

If a buyer is too pushy or the asking price seems too good to be true, these could be potential red flags. Follow your gut if anything feels sketchy and find a different car.

Finance your car where you already bank

An auto loan for a used car always comes with a great rate at Consumers. Plus there are no prepayment penalties if you pay off your vehicle loan early. Apply online or call us at 800.991.1221 to get your loan started.

 

All loans subject to approval. Rates, terms, and conditions are subject to change and may vary based on credit worthiness, qualifications, and collateral conditions. Federally Insured by NCUA