1. Home
  2. Autos
  3. Used Cars

Used Cars - How To Inspect Used Cars

By Keith Griffin, About.com

8 of 8

Second Time's the Charm

Make sure the tires are the same pre- and post-inspection. An unscrupulous owner could swap them out for a false bill of good health.

Photo © Keith Griffin 2008

Here are some quick things you can do to make sure the car is still sound – even after a mechanic’s inspection. Something could have gone wrong between the time you looked at it first and your final decision.

  • Give the dipstick another twirl and see if the fuel levels have dropped. They shouldn’t have under normal wear and tear.
  • Check the tires to make sure they haven’t been switched.
  • See if all repairs and replacements you requested (such as a flat spare tire) have been made.
  • Look for any fresh dents since your first inspection. After all, others have probably driven the car since you have.
  • Double check the interior for any stains or rips not present the first time.

Happy Hunting!

Explore Used Cars
About.com Special Features

Stay safe and save time by following these tips before driving a used car. More >

Discover the hottest cars for the 2010 calendar year. More >

  1. Home
  2. Autos
  3. Used Cars
  4. Getting Started
  5. Used Cars - Second Time’s the Charm

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.